Valensi’s Recommendations for Israeli Withdrawal Strategy from Syria
Carmit Valensi from the Institute for National Security Studies advises Israel to set conditions for its withdrawal from Syria to prevent negative repercussions. The EU has proposed lifting sanctions on the new regime led by Abu Mohammed al-Julani, increasing pressure on Israel. Valensi and various officials propose engaging diplomatically to ensure security at the Israel-Syria border and address ongoing threats in the region.
Carmit Valensi, head of the Northern Arena program at the Institute for National Security Studies and a former IDF intelligence officer, asserts that Israel should establish conditions for a withdrawal from its buffer zone in Syria. If Israel remains longer than six months, it risks a detrimental impact on its position. In a recent interview, she shared critical insights regarding Israel’s approach to Syria amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The European Union has proposed a plan to ease sanctions on Syria, aiming to foster a shift towards democracy under the new regime led by Abu Mohammed al-Julani of Hayʼat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), following Julani’s recent assumption of power after deposing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. This development signifies the West’s tentative steps toward engaging with Julani, who has indicated a desire to maintain the long-standing armistice between Israel and Syria and expects a withdrawal of Israeli forces from Syrian territory.
In response to the emerging situation, the IDF has established a buffer zone on the Israeli-Syrian border, following the collapse of Assad’s regime. Ongoing efforts include constructing enhanced facilities to support soldiers during winter. Defense Minister Israel Katz has advocated for the indefinite retention of this buffer zone to ensure national security.
Valensi emphasizes that Israel should work towards stabilizing Syria under a regime that is moderate and open to diplomacy. This strategy aims to mitigate Iranian influence and reduce threats from terrorist groups against Israel. Furthermore, she suggests that arrangements with the UN peacekeeping force (UNDOF) be strengthened to adapt to the new realities on the ground.
To reinforce security, Valensi proposes exploring preliminary communications with the new Syrian administration. Additionally, she mentions the potential of leveraging relationships with local Druze villages that have historically maintained positive ties with Israel. Ongoing contacts between IDF and HTS-affiliated officials have facilitated problem-solving in recent incidents.
According to Valensi, Israel must clearly communicate that its presence in Syria is provisional and dependent on fulfilling specific security conditions. These may include establishing a period of stability on the border, ensuring that no infiltration occurs, and blocking Hezbollah’s weapon smuggling into Lebanon. The new regime’s commitment to preventing threats near the Israel-Syria border is crucial for Israel’s future security.
Moreover, Valensi underscores the importance of engaging positively with Syrian elements and providing selective humanitarian assistance. She advocates for establishing dialogues with Turkey, Jordan, and Gulf States to promote constructive reconstruction efforts in Syria. Additionally, she urges the formation of an international committee that includes Israel, Turkey, the United States, and Russia to stabilize the new regime and protect minorities.
In conclusion, Valensi asserts that Israel should pair its security resolve with informed diplomatic efforts to seize this opportunity to shape Syria’s future. By doing so, Israel can enhance its regional prominence and strengthen its national security for the foreseeable future.
The article discusses the implications of Israel’s involvement in Syria, particularly regarding its buffer zone after the collapse of the Assad regime. As the situation evolves with the emergence of a new regime under Abu Mohammed al-Julani, the article highlights the need for Israel to develop a coherent strategy to ensure its national security while engaging with various regional actors and addressing the threats posed by terrorist groups and Iranian influence in the area.
In summary, Israel must devise a strategic framework for its withdrawal from Syria contingent upon security assurances from the new regime. By emphasizing diplomatic channels, maintaining regional alliances, and leveraging local relationships, Israel has an opportunity to play a constructive role in stabilizing Syria and securing its national interests in a complex geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
