Jordan must confront Israeli expansionism in southern Syria, as highlighted by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit to Amman. King Abdullah’s condemnation of Israeli airstrikes signifies Jordan’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity and refugee return. With potential sectarian agendas in play, Jordan’s potential military involvement could stabilize the region and safeguard its national security interests.
Jordanian media coverage of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s recent visit to Amman has been limited, with a notable absence of details regarding discussions on southern Syria. King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes and reiterated Jordan’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity and the return of Syrian refugees.
The visit appears to be influenced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s remarks about preventing Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) from establishing a presence in southern Syria. Other Israeli officials have mentioned the need to protect the rights of the Druze and Alawite communities, suggesting a potential sectarian agenda that could complicate Syria’s unity.
Amidst this sensitive backdrop, the issue of southern Syria has been a recurring topic during discussions between Jordanian and Turkish officials. Just prior to Sharaa’s visit, Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who likely encouraged coordination between Jordan and Syria regarding the Druze community and broader Israeli actions.
A pivotal question arises about Jordan’s willingness to engage actively in southern Syria, especially in supporting the Druze and stabilizing Daraa. Offering military and security presence along the Syria-Israel border could counter Israel’s narratives that question HTS’s legitimacy while reinforcing Syria’s territorial integrity.
Historically, Jordan has been reluctant to engage militarily in Syria, but the current circumstances present a critical need for such involvement. This could safeguard Jordan’s strategic interests, assist in the return of refugees, and promote Israel’s withdrawal, protecting vital water resources in the region.
Jordan’s positive relations with the Druze and other groups in southern Syria may facilitate collaboration with Damascus to counter Israel’s ambitions. While Jordan typically refrains from foreign military interventions, a cooperative framework could legitimize its role, provided it aligns with Turkey and regional partners.
Time is of the essence; if discussions regarding Jordan’s role in southern Syria did not occur during King Abdullah and Sharaa’s meeting, they must be prioritized. A delayed response could have significant repercussions for both Syria and Jordan’s national security, particularly in the face of an aggressive political narrative from certain factions in the United States.
In summary, Jordan must consider an active role in southern Syria to protect its national interests and counter Israeli expansionism. Engaging with local communities and aligning with regional partners could bolster stability in the area. A proactive approach is essential to safeguard Jordan’s security and maintain Syria’s territorial integrity in light of increasing Israeli pressure. Jordan’s involvement, if coordinated effectively, could assist in addressing the complex dynamics surrounding southern Syria, particularly regarding the Druze population and broader regional security concerns.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
