According to Carmit Valensi, Israel must set conditions for its withdrawal from Syria to avoid negative repercussions. The EU’s recent road map for lifting sanctions on Syria highlights the changing dynamics under Julani’s rule. Valensi’s strategic recommendations emphasize establishing a permanent border defense while stabilizing relations with neighboring regimes.
Israel needs to establish clear conditions for a potential withdrawal from its buffer zone in Syria. Carmit Valensi, a program head at the Institute for National Security Studies and former IDF intelligence officer, warns that remaining longer than six months could exacerbate the situation. She outlined strategic recommendations for Israel’s policy towards Syria in an interview with The Jerusalem Post.
The European Union recently initiated a plan to lift sanctions against Syria, aiming to encourage a more democratic approach under the regime led by Abu Mohammed al-Julani of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This development marks the West’s increasing willingness to engage with Julani, who has acknowledged the 1974 armistice and is pushing for Israel’s withdrawal from Syrian territory.
In response to the evolving situation, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) established a buffer zone along the border following the collapse of the Assad regime, which included fortifying positions on Mount Hermon and digging defensive trenches. The IDF also announced enhanced facilities to support soldiers in the harsh winter conditions.
Valensi argues that Israel’s long-term strategic interests hinge on stabilizing Syria under a moderate and effective regime, reducing Iranian influence, and eliminating threats against Israel. She suggested that Israel develop a new border defense plan that addresses the status of the buffer zone and involves UN peacekeeping forces.
Moreover, she emphasized the need for enhancing arrangements with the new Syrian regime and considered Turkey’s role vital due to its influence over the leadership in Syria. Valensi proposed that Israel explore preliminary communications with the new administration to safeguard its interests in the Golan Heights.
In her analysis, Valensi proposed that Israel clarify its temporary presence in Syria to regional actors, outlining the conditions necessary for a withdrawal. These conditions should include a commitment to stability on the border and measures to prevent Hezbollah from exploiting Syrian territory for weapon smuggling.
This article discusses the necessity for Israel to establish clear withdrawal conditions from Syria while addressing evolving geopolitical dynamics. As the European Union seeks to normalize relations with the new Syrian regime under Abu Mohammed al-Julani, Valensi provides insights on maintaining Israeli national security and regional stability amidst these developments. The conversation includes the implications for Israel’s military and foreign policy strategies in the context of increasing Western engagement with Syria.
In summary, Israel must approach its withdrawal from Syria with strategic foresight and clarify its temporary presence to ensure national security. Carmit Valensi’s recommendations highlight the importance of establishing cooperative relations with the new Syrian regime while emphasizing regional stability and the prevention of threats from extremist groups. Effective communication and diplomatic measures will be crucial in navigating this complex landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
