As tensions escalate, Israel appears to be leveraging Syria’s internal conflict for political gain. Defense Minister Israel Katz accused Syrian leaders of disguising their true intentions while seeking a diplomatic middle ground. Katz reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to maintaining a military presence in Syrian territories, including the Harmon Heights, to protect the Golan Heights and the Galilee region. Meanwhile, newly appointed Israeli Army Chief Yaal Zamir has issued a stark warning, stating that 2025 will be a “year of war,” with conflicts likely to intensify in Gaza and Iran. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has dismissed international concerns over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, rejecting UN and global agency warnings that Israel’s strict blockade could lead to yet another famine in the besieged region.