Israel's Mixed Strategy on Syria Highlights Ongoing Tensions

Israel's recent military action against Syria complicates ongoing diplomatic discussions, showcasing a struggle between military force and the pursuit of peace.

For several weeks, Israel has been quietly engaging in back-channel negotiations with the Syrian government as both parties seek to alleviate decades of conflict, particularly over territorial disputes stemming from the Arab-Israeli war of 1967. Recent media reports in Israel hinted at a potential non-aggression agreement or even a groundbreaking peace accord with the Syrian government, which underwent a transformation after jihadists overtook Damascus in December.

However, Israel's significant airstrikes on government positions in Damascus this week have starkly illustrated the mismatch between optimistic diplomatic expectations and the complex reality of the geopolitical landscape. Experts note that Israel, still reeling from the unforeseen Hamas assault in October 2023 but also feeling emboldened by its military successes against Hezbollah and Iran, appears more inclined to utilize military force rather than engage in diplomatic dialogue.

As Israel's military strategy evolves post-2023, Itamar Rabinovich, an esteemed historian and former negotiator with Syria, remarked on the contradictory nature of this approach. The recent strikes were reportedly provoked by Syrian troop deployments aimed at addressing internal conflicts in southwest Syria, indicating a precarious balance of power within the region. While Syrian capabilities have been considerably weakened by ongoing military operations and years of civil unrest, the regime was still able to mobilize outdated armaments to confront threats.

The unpredictable narrative unfolding between Israel and Syria showcases the ongoing struggle between military action and diplomatic resolution in a region long marked by conflict.