Netanyahu’s Strategic Move in Syria: Opportunities and Implications
Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu sees opportunities in reshaping Syria. His government advocates for federalism and seeks alliances with Syria’s minorities, while Israel’s military presence has escalated significantly. Concerns rise over the potential for increased regional tensions as various players, including Turkey and Saudi Arabia, reposition themselves in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
In the aftermath of the ousting of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad in December, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed that this historic change presents “very important opportunities” for Israel. The chaos in Syria has caused its population to face an uncertain future, thus providing the Netanyahu government a chance to reshape the Middle East, advocating for a fragmented Syria consisting of smaller autonomous regions.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar reiterated this vision, suggesting that a stable Syria requires federalism that respects diverse ways of life. Following the Hamas attack on October 7 and subsequent regional unrest, Netanyahu has voiced his determination to “change the face of the Middle East” to benefit Israel, leveraging alliances with minority groups to expand territorial control.
Netanyahu directed an unprecedented ground offensive into Syrian territory shortly after Assad’s removal, significantly deepening Israeli military presence and disrupting decades of tacit diplomacy with the Assad regime. This included numerous airstrikes on Assad’s military remnants to prevent them from being seized by militant factions, capturing strategic locations such as Mount Hermon.
Israel perceives the potential new Syrian leadership as a threat and has vowed to prevent new Syrian forces from establishing a presence close to its border. The border between Israel and Syria, largely unchanged since the 1967 war, is rapidly changing as Israel expands its territorial claim, taking more control in the region, although precise boundaries remain undetermined.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new head of Syria, has previously shown no interest in confronting Israel, yet Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has cautioned that his true intentions may manifest as his jihadist roots surface. Katz criticized the character shift of Sharaa from a seemingly moderate leader to a figure committing atrocities against minority groups in Syria.
Israeli officials now suggest a permanent military presence in Syria, focusing particularly on protecting the Druze and Kurdish minorities. Should Israel succeed in establishing a demilitarized zone backed by local Druze residents, it would significantly expand its influence over southern Syria, marking a crucial territorial gain.
Experts warn of escalating tensions if the interim Syrian government begins to respond forcefully to Israeli actions. The new Syrian leadership under Sharaa has condemned Israeli operations as hostile while pursuing reconciliation efforts with minority communities, indicating a potential shift in dynamics.
Netanyahu’s government has actively sought alliances with Syria’s Druze minority to stave off disenfranchisement under Islamist rule. Despite some Druze rejecting Israeli support, concerns about Sharaa’s governance have prompted others to consider Israeli protection as a safeguard for their future.
Israel has also identified Syria’s Kurdish population as a potential ally, advocating for their protection against Turkish incursions, given Turkey’s ongoing military campaigns against perceived Kurdish threats. This outreach to minority groups, however, might instigate further ethnic divisions among the Syrian populace.
While Israel’s influence in Syria is notable, it is not the sole actor in the region. Turkey has plans to formalize a defense agreement with the new Syrian regime, which may complicate Israel’s objectives. Additionally, Saudi Arabia and Russia are maneuvering to establish and maintain their interests in Syria, indicating a complex geopolitical landscape.
Netanyahu firmly articulated Israel’s intention to preclude any hostile forces from using Syria against Israel, emphasizing the country’s commitment to maintaining security along its borders.
In conclusion, Israel’s engagement in Syria following Assad’s fall highlights a strategic shift, with Netanyahu’s government seeking to reshape the region through military presence and alliances with minority groups. This pursuit of expansion risks escalating tensions within Syria as new leaders react to Israel’s aggressive tactics. As regional players like Turkey and Saudi Arabia also vie for influence, Israel must navigate a complex landscape to secure its interests and maintain stability along its borders.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
