Jordan’s Strategic Role Against Israeli Expansionism in Syria
Jordan’s response to Israeli expansionism in southern Syria has become crucial after President Sharaa’s recent visit to Amman, which is less reported in Jordanian media. Amidst rising Israeli ambitions, King Abdullah condemned Israeli strikes while emphasizing Syria’s integrity. The need for Jordan to potentially engage militarily in southern Syria, preserving relations with the Druze community and addressing both national and regional security, has become increasingly urgent.
Jordanian media has provided limited coverage regarding Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Amman. Following this visit, King Abdullah issued a strong condemnation of Israeli air strikes in Syria and affirmed Jordan’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity and the voluntary return of Syrian refugees. However, significant discussions surrounding Israel’s occupation in southern Syria and the conditions concerning the Druze community remain unreported.
Sharaa’s diplomatic meeting coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s vehement stance against allowing Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) to gain a foothold in southern Syria. Other Israeli officials have suggested they shall ensure the rights and safety of local Druze and Alawite communities. This situation highlights underlying concerns regarding Israel’s ambitions within Syria and the potential establishment of sectarian entities, a preference among the more hardline factions in Israeli politics.
The context of Sharaa’s visit is critical given recent discussions between Jordanian and Turkish officials about the future of southern Syria. Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan shortly prior to Sharaa’s arrival, likely shaping a cooperative approach concerning southern Syria, particularly in relation to the Druze and Israel’s broader interests in the region.
The pressing question arises regarding Jordan’s willingness to engage actively in southern Syria, particularly if called upon by HTS. Such engagement could involve influencing the Druze community, maintaining stability in Daraa, and establishing a military presence along the border with Israel. This move would counter Israeli narratives regarding distrust of HTS, as Jordanian support might reinforce Syria’s national integrity.
Historically, Jordan has refrained from military involvement in Syria, yet the current circumstances could compel a re-evaluation for the sake of Jordan’s strategic interests. Establishing a military presence could facilitate a friendly administration in Damascus, promote the safe return of Syrian refugees, and secure vital resources such as water from the Yarmouk basin.
Jordan maintains favorable relations with various communities in southern Syria, including the Druze, which could serve as a basis for collaboration with Damascus against perceived Israeli threats. Though Jordan typically avoids foreign conflicts, its role in Syria might gain legitimacy through an agreement with Damascus, supported by Turkey and other regional allies.
Time is of the essence. If the discussions regarding Jordan’s potential role in southern Syria were not adequately addressed during Sharaa’s visit, it is imperative that they are expedited, potentially through indirect negotiations with Turkey. This is essential to combat the Israeli narrative portraying HTS negatively and to address the security implications for Jordan and its sovereignty.
In conclusion, Jordan must reassess its role in southern Syria amidst rising Israeli expansionism and establish cooperation with both Syria and Turkey. By actively engaging with the Druze community and possibly deploying military presence along its border with Israel, Jordan can safeguard its own national interests and contribute to regional stability. Immediate and proactive measures are crucial to counteract Israel’s agenda and protect regional integrity.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
