US-Israel Perspectives on the Iranian Threat and Syria - ICT Panel

Miri moderates a high-level panel exploring the evolving security challenges in the Middle East, with special attention to Syria and the broader Iranian threat. She introduces Major General Amos Gilad, who highlights Israel’s deep concerns over Iran’s regional ambitions, proxy buildup in Lebanon and Syria, and the feeling of strategic isolation despite close ties with the US. US envoy Joel Rayburn outlines American objectives in Syria: defeating Daesh, expelling all Iranian-led forces, and pursuing a political resolution. The discussion highlights both the shared strategic outlook between Israel and the US and areas of anxiety, such as the perceived limits of American direct engagement and the ever-present risk of Iranian escalation with Russian complicity. Miri skillfully draws out nuanced perspectives on alliance dynamics, potential for regional partnerships with Arab states, and the realpolitik of dealing with the Assad regime. The session concludes with reflections on how enduring US-Israeli cooperation, despite differences, remains a key security pillar for Israel as regional threats intensify.