Israel Seizes 3,300 Weapons Post-Assad Era as New Syrian Government Eyes Gulf Investments

Israeli forces secure weapons amid regional threats, while Syria’s new leadership seeks financial support for reconstruction and refugee repatriation.

Tel Aviv [Israel], January 15: In the wake of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's fall in December 2024, Israeli forces have reported confiscating over 3,300 weapons, according to Al Jazeera. The cache includes tanks, antitank and RPG launchers, mortars, shells, surveillance equipment, and other arms, underscoring Israel’s ongoing efforts to fortify its borders and mitigate regional threats.

Across conflict zones in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, the Israeli military claims to have seized approximately 170,000 weapons and combat items, highlighting the scale of the region’s security challenges.

Meanwhile, Syria’s new government, which ended decades of Assad family rule, is focusing on rebuilding its shattered economy and infrastructure. The government is actively courting investments from Gulf states to stimulate economic recovery after 13 years of war left the nation’s healthcare and public services in ruins.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, who leads Hayat Tahrir al-Sham—the group that spearheaded Assad’s overthrow—has been engaging with regional leaders to facilitate reconstruction efforts. In a recent meeting with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, al-Sharaa discussed strategies to repatriate Syrian refugees currently in Lebanon.

Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani is also conducting diplomatic visits to Qatar, the UAE, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, seeking to establish partnerships for economic and healthcare recovery.

Saudi Arabia’s engagement is particularly significant, given Syria's devastated healthcare system, which has been plagued by corruption and neglect. Al-Sharaa’s government aims to rebuild this vital sector and restore public trust while addressing broader economic and social challenges.

This diplomatic outreach comes as Syria grapples with the aftermath of a prolonged civil war, highlighting both the immense challenges and opportunities facing the nation under its new leadership.