Syria’s Interim President Calls for International Pressure on Israel’s Withdrawal

Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa urged the international community to pressure Israel to withdraw from southern Syria during his address at an Arab summit. This follows the ousting of Bashar al-Assad and highlights ongoing Israeli military actions that challenge Syrian sovereignty. Sharaa’s participation marks a significant moment for Syria as it interacts with regional leaders and the UN regarding its future.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim president of Syria, addressed his first Arab summit on Tuesday, urging the international community to compel Israel to withdraw its troops from southern Syria. This plea follows the recent offensive led by his Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which resulted in the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8. Israel has maintained a military presence in a UN-monitored buffer zone on the Golan Heights since 1974, following its occupation of the area since 1967 and subsequent annexation that remains unrecognized by the United Nations.

In his speech to the Arab leaders gathered in Cairo, Sharaa emphasized that Israel’s military presence constitutes a violation of Syrian sovereignty and poses a significant threat to regional security and peace. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously insisted on the complete demilitarization of southern Syria, opposing the presence of new Syrian authorities in the region. Sharaa’s presence at the summit marked his first since the transition of power nearly three months ago.

During the summit, Sharaa met with notable officials, including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Guterres and Sharaa reportedly discussed the potential for a transformative new path for Syria amidst the existing challenges. Moreover, the UN envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, condemned recent Israeli military actions, including airstrikes, against Syrian targets.

In summary, interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria has called upon the international community to press for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Syria. His remarks at the Arab summit reflect ongoing regional tensions and the challenges faced by Syria under new leadership. With continued Israeli military actions in the area and regional discussions surrounding Syria’s future, the situation remains precarious. Sharaa’s engagement in international diplomacy underscores the complexities of regional politics following the upheaval of Assad’s regime.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com