Damascus - Syria yesterday led a chorus of criticism from eastern Mediterranean countries of joint American, Israeli and Turkish naval manoeuvres. The exercise was seen as heralding an emerging military alliance.
"These alliances will increase the risk of divisions in the region and escalate the state of instability," said Syrian vice-president Mr Abdel-Halim Khaddamhe.
Although the three countries said the purpose of yesterday's joint exercise was purely humanitarian, other nations in the region share Syria's concerns.