In this discussion, Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi, a Research Fellow at the Middle East Forum, dives into Israel's strategic military operations in Syria. He explains the significance of Israeli airstrikes in neutralizing threats post-Assad and how the dynamics of local trust have shifted in border villages. The conversation also covers the historical and demographic complexities of the Golan Heights, shedding light on the local Druze community's mixed sentiments towards Israeli annexation amid regional tensions.
Israel's military operations in Syria aim to neutralize threats from the Assad regime, evidenced by over 500 strikes targeting military assets.
Local communities exhibit a mix of acceptance and resentment towards Israeli actions, with emerging tensions prompting youth mobilization against encroachment.
Deep dives
Strategic Importance of Mount Hermon
Mount Hermon, located at the border between the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights and Syria, holds significant strategic value for Israel. The area has been under Israeli control since 1967 and serves as a vantage point for monitoring military movements in Syria and Lebanon. Recently, discussions surfaced about developing ski resorts in the region, indicating both economic interest and Israel's long-term intentions to solidify its presence. As Israel seeks to double the number of settlers in the Golan, the control over this mountain reinforces its military and territorial ambitions in the area.
Israel's Military Operations in Syria
Israel has conducted numerous military operations in Syria, targeting remnants of the Assad regime's military assets since the collapse of its governance. With over 500 strikes reported, Israel's strategy focuses on eliminating potential threats by targeting abandoned military equipment and infrastructure. These operations are framed as necessary to prevent hostile elements from gaining access to weapons and creating instability near Israel's borders. The approach includes a mix of direct assaults and interactions with local leaders, with some communities facing pressure to disarm or evacuate, which has raised tensions and resentment among civilians.
Local Responses to Israeli Expansion
The reaction of local communities to Israeli expansions and military incursions is complex and varied, influenced by both historical context and current threats. While some community leaders express a pragmatic acceptance of Israel's actions, many locals harbor deep mistrust and resentment over aggressive tactics like forced disarmament and infrastructure destruction. Reports indicate that there is a potential mobilization of local youth seeking confrontation with Israeli forces due to increased dissatisfaction. Despite the fear of retribution, certain factions within these communities are calling for a more assertive stance against Israeli encroachment, highlighting the brewing tensions within the region.
As Syria navigates a fragile political transition, Israel has wiped out much of Syrian military assets, pushed further into Syrian territory, and approved a plan to expand settlements in the occupied Golan Heights. How will Syria’s new leadership respond?
In this episode:
Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi (@ajaltamimi), Research Fellow, Middle East Forum
Episode credits:
This episode was produced by Khaled Soltan and Tamara Khandaker, with Phillip Lanos, Spencer Cline, Hagir Saleh, Duha Mosaad, Chloe K. Li, and our host, Malika Bilal.
Our sound designer is Alex Roldan. Our video editors are Hisham Abu Salah and Mohannad Al-Melhem. Alexandra Locke is The Take’s executive producer. Ney Alvarez is Al Jazeera’s head of audio.