Jordan needs to respond to the challenges posed by Israeli expansionism in Syria. King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes and emphasized support for Syria’s integrity. Sharaa’s visit reflects ongoing critical discussions regarding southern Syria, particularly concerning the Druze community and Israel’s agenda. Jordan’s role could shift towards stability and security in the region.
Recent news surrounding Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Amman has been underreported by Jordanian media, despite King Abdullah’s condemnation of Israeli airstrikes in Syria. Abdullah also voiced support for Syria’s territorial integrity and the return of Syrian refugees. However, the specifics of Sharaa’s discussions regarding southern Syria, including Israel’s occupation and the region’s military-political dynamics, received little attention.
Sharaa’s visit was likely influenced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement on preventing the presence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in southern Syria. Israeli officials have communicated intentions to ensure the safety of local Druze and Alawite communities, indicating an agenda that may lead to sectarian divisions in the region, favored by the Israeli right.
Sharaa’s trip to Jordan is critical as it aligns with recent Jordanian discussions involving Turkish officials about Syria’s future. Jordan’s Crown Prince Hussein met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan prior to Sharaa’s visit, suggesting the need to coordinate actions regarding southern Syria, specifically focusing on the Druze community and Israel’s intentions.
This situation prompts the question of Jordan’s willingness to engage actively in southern Syria at the request of HTS. Such engagement could mean influencing the Druze population, stabilizing Daraa, or even establishing a security presence along the Syria-Israel border. This presence might counter Israeli narratives of distrust regarding HTS and associated groups, boosting Syria’s territorial integrity.
Historically, Jordan has refrained from military involvement in Syria, but current dynamics necessitate a reassessment. If HTS invites Jordanian forces, this would serve Jordan’s national interests, maintain Syria’s territorial unity, and secure essential water resources, including those from the Yarmouk river.
Jordan holds substantial relationships with southern communities, particularly the Druze and Arab tribes, which could be leveraged against Israel’s strategies. While there is an inclination to avoid external conflicts, Jordan could find legitimacy in military engagement if cohesive agreements are made in collaboration with Damascus and supported by the Turkish government.
Timeliness is essential. If discussions on Jordan’s role in southern Syria were overlooked during the King and Sharaa’s meeting, urgent action and dialogue must be prioritized. This effort is crucial to rebut the Israeli right’s portrayal of HTS and to safeguard Jordan’s own national security in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.
In conclusion, Jordan faces a pivotal moment regarding its involvement in southern Syria amidst Israeli expansionism. The dynamics of Sharaa’s visit underscore the need for Jordan to reassess its role and collaborate with both Syrian and Turkish officials. Ensuring stability and protecting Jordan’s interests may necessitate a military or security presence to counter Israeli narratives and preserve regional integrity. Jordan must act swiftly to respond to these pressing challenges.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
