Israeli Channel: Expectations of New Russian Requests Related to the Syrian File

Israeli media reported that Russia is seeking to raise issues related to the Syrian situation during its recent communications with the Israeli side, as part of its efforts to expand its influence and military support inside Syria.

Channel 14 quoted unnamed sources as saying that Tel Aviv believes the recent phone call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may pave the way for Moscow to present demands related to the Syrian file.

According to the channel, Israel expects that Moscow will request entering negotiations over a set of issues related to Syria, including the possibility that Russia may “provide the Syrian government forces with equipment and combat means in the coming period.”

The channel added that Russia “is preparing to strengthen its presence in the Syrian arena by expanding the scope of its military support,” as part of what it described as a broader Russian vision to increase its involvement in the region’s developments.