Israel has announced a plan to expand settlements in the Golan Heights, a strategic area it captured during the 1967 Six-Day War. This move, led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, follows significant political changes in neighbouring Syria.
Why Is Israel Expanding Settlements?
Netanyahu has stated that the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has created a “new front” on Israel’s border with Syria. The regime was overthrown by an Islamist-led rebel alliance, causing a shift in regional dynamics.
Key reasons for Israel’s actions include:
- Security Concerns: With the Assad regime gone, Netanyahu says existing ceasefire arrangements have “collapsed”.
- Population Goals: The Israeli government plans to double the population in the Golan Heights, currently home to about 20,000 Israelis.
- Territorial Strategy: Netanyahu emphasised the importance of “holding on to the territory” and making it flourish.
The Controversy Around Golan Heights
The Golan Heights, seized by Israel in 1967, remains a contentious issue under international law.
- International Law: Most countries and organisations, including the United Nations, consider Israeli settlements in the Golan Heights illegal.
- Disputed Territory: The area is also home to approximately 20,000 Druze Arabs who stayed after Israel took control.
Mixed Reactions
Support From Netanyahu
Netanyahu remains firm in his stance, stating that Israel has no interest in escalating conflicts with Syria. He believes the expansion is necessary to secure Israel’s interests.
Criticism From Former Leaders
Ehud Olmert, a former Israeli prime minister, criticised the plan, questioning its necessity.
- He argued that Israel should avoid actions that could increase tensions with Syria.
- “We have enough problems to deal with,” he said in an interview with the BBC World Service.
Regional and International Response
Syria’s Perspective
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Syria’s new transitional government, condemned Israel’s ongoing airstrikes in the region.
- Al-Sharaa described the strikes as crossing “red lines” and warned they could escalate tensions.
- However, he clarified that Syria was not seeking further conflict with its neighbours.
UN and International Voices
UN Syria envoy Geir Pedersen expressed hopes for a quick end to sanctions on Syria, aiming to support the country’s recovery after years of war.
Turkey’s Position
Turkey’s Defence Minister Yasar Guler indicated readiness to support Syria’s new administration, signalling cautious optimism about the transitional government.
The Bigger Picture
The power shift in Syria, with former President Assad fleeing to Russia, marks a new chapter in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Israel’s plans in the Golan Heights reflect its strategy to adapt to the changing regional landscape.
Key Developments:
- Over 450 Israeli airstrikes have been reported in Syria since December, targeting military facilities and preventing weapons from reaching extremist groups.
- The US has made contact with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the group leading Syria’s transition, despite previously designating it as a terrorist organisation.
What’s Next?
Israel’s expansion plans in the Golan Heights will likely remain a contentious issue, drawing criticism from international bodies and fuelling regional debates. The long-term impact on the stability of Israel-Syria relations remains uncertain.
Sources
- BBC News
- Reuters
- Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR)
- Anadolu News Agency