Jordan’s Role in Countering Israeli Expansionism in Syria

Jordan is urged to take action against Israel’s expansionism in southern Syria following a visit from Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. King Abdullah condemned Israeli strikes and emphasized support for Syrian sovereignty. The Jordan-HS relationship could be pivotal for regional stability and countering Israeli efforts to control southern Syria.

Following the recent visit of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to Amman, Jordanian media coverage was surprisingly limited. King Abdullah condemned the Israeli air strikes in Syria and expressed his support for Syria’s territorial integrity. Jordan also recognized the need for the voluntary return of Syrian refugees, yet critical discussions regarding southern Syria remained largely unreported.

Sharaa’s visit comes amid Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comments about preventing the presence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in southern Syria. Other Israeli officials have suggested Israel aims to safeguard the rights of various communities, including the Druze and Alawites, indicating a potentially alarming agenda by Israel regarding southern Syria’s future.

This visit was set against the backdrop of formulating Syria’s future. High-level dialogues between Jordanian and Turkish officials regarding southern Syria have taken place since the Assad regime’s fall. Notably, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah’s prior meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan likely involved discussions about Sharaa’s visit to finalize arrangements concerning the Druze community and Israel’s plans.

Jordan faces a pivotal decision regarding its involvement in southern Syria, particularly if HTS solicits assistance. This could encompass stability efforts in Daraa and potentially a military presence along the Syrian-Israeli border. If Jordan were to respond to HTS’s request, it may counter Israel’s security concerns and bolster the notion of Syria’s territorial integrity.

Historically, Jordan has refrained from military or security commitments in Syria, yet the current climate necessitates a reassessment. Engaging more actively, if requested by HTS, could be vital for safeguarding Jordan’s national security interests, facilitating Syrian refugee returns, and ensuring Israel withdraws from border areas crucial to Jordan’s water access.

Jordan maintains positive relations with southern Syrian communities like the Druze and Arab tribes, which could be instrumental in collaboration with Damascus to combat Israel’s ambitions. Although Jordan has traditionally been cautious about intervening beyond its borders, its role in Syria could gain legitimacy through an agreement with Damascus, possibly supported by Turkey and other regional allies.

Timeliness is essential; if recent discussions between King Abdullah and Sharaa overlooked Jordan’s role in southern Syria, further dialogue should be prioritized, potentially through Turkish mediation. Such diplomatic efforts are crucial against dominant narratives from the Israeli right, notably those in the United States that equate HTS with al-Qaeda and suggest threats to minority groups in Syria. Jordan’s delayed response may result in severe repercussions for both Jordan and Syria.

In summary, Jordan faces significant challenges regarding its role in southern Syria, particularly in light of Israel’s expansionist agenda. The potential collaboration with HTS could enhance Jordan’s national security and counter Israeli narratives. Engaging with Damascus and leveraging relationships with local communities could prove vital for regional stability and Syrian territorial integrity.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net