Israel Warns of Kurdish Repression in Aleppo

Israel’s foreign minister has warned of what he described as serious and alarming attacks against Kurdish communities in the Syrian city of Aleppo, raising concerns over the treatment of minorities amid ongoing instability in the country.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said assaults carried out by Syrian government forces against Kurds in Aleppo contradict pledges to establish a “new Syria” based on inclusivity and respect for minority rights. He stressed that the international community, particularly Western nations, has a “moral obligation” toward the Kurds, citing their role in the fight against the Islamic State group.

Sa’ar cautioned that the systematic and violent repression of minorities could fuel further escalation if met with international silence, warning that such inaction may embolden Damascus to expand military operations.

Israeli media reports said Tel Aviv is not seeking a direct agreement with the Syrian government and is instead aiming to avoid confrontation through indirect diplomatic efforts, including contacts in European capitals. According to these reports, recent developments inside Syria are being used to delay any new understandings.

The Israeli discourse on minority protection has recently expanded beyond the Druze community to include Kurds, amid growing concerns over security along Syria’s borders. Israeli assessments indicate that the Syrian government controls roughly 60% of the country, raising fears of instability in contested areas.