Occupied Golan Heights: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has linked future engagement with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shareh to cooperation on establishing a demilitarized zone in southwestern Syria, adjacent to the occupied Golan Heights. This condition comes amid ongoing tensions and accusations of Israeli violations of Syrian territory.
In an interview, Netanyahu stated that the future of relations with al-Shareh hinges on progress towards creating a secure demilitarized zone in southern Syria. He emphasized the need for lasting protection for the Druze population in the area as a prerequisite for moving forward.
The Syrian government has repeatedly accused Israel of exploiting the pretext of protecting the Druze community to justify military actions, including airstrikes and incursions, within Syria. Damascus maintains that the Druze are integral to Syrian society and enjoy the same rights as all other citizens.
Netanyahu asserted that he would judge al-Shareh based on actions and tangible results on the ground. He stated his focus would be on what is actually happening and being achieved in the region.
President al-Shareh, during a recent visit to Washington, addressed the feasibility of demilitarizing the area south of Damascus in response to Netanyahu’s demands. He acknowledged the difficulty of implementing such a measure across an entire region, raising concerns about who would maintain security and prevent potential exploitation by disruptive elements.
Al-Shareh questioned who would be responsible if the demilitarized zone were used as a launching pad for attacks against Israel. He reiterated that the territory is Syrian land and Syria should have the freedom to exercise its sovereignty within its borders.
Al-Shareh further stated that Israel occupied the Golan, allegedly to protect Israel, and is now imposing conditions in southern Syria to protect the Golan. This latest demand adds another layer to the complex relationship between the two countries. Since the fall of the previous Syrian regime in late 2024, Israeli actions within Syria have reportedly escalated.
