As Syrian rebels claimed victory over Damascus and Bashar al-Assad fled, Israel acted swiftly, moving forces into southern Syria and occupying strategic areas like Al-Sheikh Mountain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the collapse of the 1974 disengagement agreement, citing the Syrian army’s withdrawal as justification.
Netanyahu described the situation as both a challenge and an opportunity, emphasizing Israel’s need to ‘secure’ the occupied Golan Heights. Israeli airstrikes targeted over 100 sites across Syria, including missile systems, weapons depots, and military research facilities. The strikes aim to prevent advanced weaponry, including chemical arms, from falling into the hands of the opposition, which Israel sees as potential threats.
The Military Dimension
The Israeli military has focused on areas like Daraa, Quneitra, and Damascus, hitting positions such as the Mazzeh military airport and storage facilities for long-range missiles. Military analysts argue that Israel’s actions aim to cripple Syria’s military infrastructure, ensuring these assets cannot be used against it in the future.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, Colonel Hisham Mustafa of the Syrian National Authority revealed that Israeli tanks and airstrikes targeted areas near the “Bravo Line,” a UN-monitored buffer zone. He believes Israel is leveraging Syria’s chaos to neutralize threats while avoiding direct conflict with the rebel factions now governing the country.
Political Maneuvers
Israel’s strategy isn’t limited to military operations. Israel has engaged politically with groups like the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a Kurdish US-backed group that controls parts in eastern Syria and is being fought by the rebels. This dialogue, according to Israeli officials, reflects concerns about the growing strength of opposition groups near its borders.
Analysts like Muhammad Alloush argue that Israel’s ultimate goal is to exploit Syria’s political vacuum to annex more territory and create a buffer against future threats. By acting during Syria’s transition, Israel hopes to solidify its security while avoiding backlash from the emerging government.
Responses from Syria and Other Countries
Syrian opposition forces, preoccupied with restoring order after Assad’s departure, have not responded militarily to Israeli strikes.
Internationally, Israel’s actions have drawn limited condemnation, partly due to its justification of targeting Iranian-aligned forces. However, critics argue that these moves are less about immediate threats and more about shaping Syria’s future geopolitical landscape.
As the situation evolves, Israel’s aggressive strategy may risk escalating tensions, further complicating Syria’s recovery and regional stability.
For now, Israel’s actions highlight its intent to secure strategic advantages amid Syria’s ongoing turmoil, but these moves come at a cost—deepening instability in an already fractured nation.
Source: qudsnen
