Syrians see Israel as biggest regional threat, followed by Iran: Survey
Summary
A 2026 nationwide survey found that Syrians most often identify Israel as a threat to Syria and the wider region, with Iran in second place. The poll also found broad opposition to recognizing Israel and growing support for democracy and political pluralism.Key Facts
- 61 percent named Israel as the main threat to Syria, compared with 20 percent who named Iran.
- For the Arab world overall, 58 percent named Israel as the main threat; 24 percent named Iran, up from 12 percent in 2025.
- 97 percent said Israel threatens Middle East security and stability, while 93 percent said the same of Iran.
- About 96 percent said Israel is working to destabilize Syria, and 86 percent said it is driving separatist tendencies.
- Almost 80 percent opposed recognizing Israel, and 74 percent opposed an agreement that did not return the occupied Golan Heights.
- Respondents were divided on direct talks between Syrian and Israeli officials: 41 percent said the talks serve Syria’s interests and 49 percent said they do not.
- 76 percent said democracy is better than other systems despite its problems, up 16 percentage points from last year; three-quarters favored a system with political pluralism and separation of powers.
- Half said Syria was heading in the right direction, while 35 percent disagreed. The survey was conducted by the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies and the Arab Center for Contemporary Syria Studies.
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