Syrians See Israel as Biggest Regional Threat, Followed by Iran: Survey

The 2026 Arab Opinion Index for Syria found that 61 percent of respondents consider Israel the main threat to their country, compared with 20 percent who named Iran. Across the Arab world, 58 percent identified Israel and 24 percent Iran as the leading regional threat, while 97 percent said Israel threatens Middle Eastern security and stability. About 96 percent said Israel is seeking to destabilise Syria; nearly 80 percent oppose recognising Israel, and 74 percent reject any agreement that does not return the occupied Golan Heights. Respondents were divided on direct Syrian-Israeli talks, with 41 percent saying they serve Syria’s interests and 49 percent saying they do not.