The article discusses Jordan’s potential role in curbing Israeli expansionism in southern Syria following the visit of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes and emphasized Syrian territorial integrity. Key issues regarding the Druze and southern Syria were underreported. The article explores Jordan’s possible proactive engagement in the region and the urgency of discussions with Damascus and Turkey.
In light of the recent visit by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to Amman, Jordanian official media reported only briefly on the affair. King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes in Syria, expressing support for Syria’s territorial integrity and advocating for the safe return of Syrian refugees. However, key discussions concerning Israel’s occupation in southern Syria and relations with the Druze were notably absent from local media coverage.
The visit may have been prompted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s insistence that Israel would prevent Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from establishing itself in southern Syria. Israeli officials have indicated plans to safeguard the rights of the Druze and Alawite communities. This suggests an underlying Israeli agenda aimed at shaping Syria’s future and the potential emergence of sectarian subdivisions, which could benefit certain Israeli factions.
Jordanian Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah’s recent meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan may have influenced Sharaa’s decision to visit Jordan. Discussions likely centered on the situation in southern Syria, especially in Sweida province and the circumstances of the Druze community, alongside Israel’s broader regional ambitions. Coordination with Turkey could be a vital aspect of Jordan’s approach to southern Syria.
A pertinent question arises: how proactive is Jordan willing to be in southern Syria if HTS makes such a request? This could entail influencing the Druze, stabilizing Daraa, or even establishing security forces near the Syria-Israel border. Such a move might counter Israel’s claims of insecurity due to HTS, reaffirming Syria’s territorial integrity while addressing Jordan’s national security interests.
Historically, Jordan refrained from getting military involved in Syria, but current dynamics suggest a potential shift. A coordinated role with HTS and regional partners could be crucial for Jordan’s strategic interests, ensuring the return of refugees and addressing water resource access from the Yarmouk basin, ultimately promoting territorial unity in Syria.
Jordan has longstanding ties with many Southern Syrian communities, particularly the Druze and various Arab tribes, which could be leveraged to counter Israel’s expansive objectives. Despite a general aversion to conflicts beyond its borders, Jordan’s engagement may be justifiable with an agreement from Damascus, supported by Turkey and other regional allies.
Time is critical. Should the discussions between King Abdullah and Sharaa have overlooked Jordan’s prospective role in southern Syria, they must be prioritized, even if indirectly through Turkish mediation. An expedited dialogue is vital to counter the narrative propagated by the Israeli right regarding HTS and protect the interests of vulnerable Syrian minority groups.
Jordan’s potential involvement in southern Syria is crucial for maintaining regional stability and countering Israeli expansionist designs. As the political landscape shifts, Jordan must assess its readiness to engage more actively, considering its past approaches and the current geopolitical dynamics. Strengthened coordination with Turkey and a clear strategy could ensure Jordan’s national security and support Syria’s territorial integrity.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
