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Israel's Dangerous Violations in Syria: Turning a Potential Ally into an Enemy
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Analysis by Shira Efron and Danny Citrinowicz
In the months following the collapse of President Bashar Assad's regime in Syria, Israeli military activities in Syria have significantly increased, reflecting a radical shift in Israeli policy towards its northeastern neighbor. Israel had believed it could coexist with the Assad regime; however, the current situation indicates serious violations from the Israeli side.
Israeli concerns about the new Syrian leadership under Ahmad Al-Shara have grown, yet the military methods used by Israel have exceeded what can be justified. While there are legitimate security motives behind these policies, there is also a desire to demonstrate power to neighbors and citizens, who have been heavily affected by the failure to respond to the October attack.
Israel must emphasize that its military interventions are temporary and cease undermining Turkey's efforts to help the new regime stabilize the country and counter Iranian influence. Israel should be prepared to cooperate with Damascus, as long as it avoids any steps that threaten its security.
With no imminent threat from the new Syrian regime, the current approach holds less strategic value compared to Israeli dealings with Lebanon. The Israeli stance towards the Al-Shara government reflects a contradiction; while Israeli leaders accuse Al-Shara of still harboring jihadist intentions, they rely on him to curb Iranian influence in the region.
It is important to note that Turkey is not an enemy of Israel, as both countries share economic and security interests, and Israel should avoid provoking the largest military power in NATO amidst multiple conflicts.
The current Israeli policy reflects a more aggressive mindset after October 7, and it also has internal motivations. Israel's policy in Syria has begun to yield counterproductive results, as the Syrian defense minister described Israeli incursions as "violations," representing a shift from the previous regime's approach of not publicly criticizing Israel.
If the new Syrian government can be moderate and solidify its authority, it will yield significant benefits for Israel, as it would achieve a stable neighbor not aligned with Iran and a strong army capable of facing threats. Israel should encourage moderation by welcoming signs such as the recent arrests of leaders of extremist groups.
The Israeli government must take serious steps to avoid repeating the mistakes of the 1980s and 1990s in Lebanon. It is essential to work closely with regional and international partners to prevent Syria from returning to the Iranian framework and to dispose of the remnants of chemical and biological weapons left by Assad.
