"If Damascus is attacked, Tel Aviv will become a target and a full-scale war against Syria will essentially justify an attack against Israel," a senior Syrian army official told Iranian news agency Fars on Tuesday.

"If Syria is attacked, Israel will also be set on fire and such an attack will, in turn, engage Syria's neighbors," the source added.

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The source also warned the US and other western states that if Syria "becomes weak," certain "irresponsible" groups will be formed which will endanger Israel's security.

"Thus, a US attack on Syria will herald frequent strikes and attacks on Israel, not just by Damascus and its allies in retaliation, but by extremist groups who will find a ground for staging their aspirations," he told Fars.

Also on Tuesday, the Israeli Defense Ministry held a special meeting in Tel Aviv with the participation of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon, Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Benny Gantz and an array of top IDF officers.

"The State of Israel is prepared for every scenario," Netanyahu said after the meeting. "We're not part of the Syrian civil war, but if we'll spot an attempt to harm us we'll respond with great force."

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