Why is Israel Attacking Syria?

Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes on Syrian military installations and deployed forces to the defense zone near the Golan Heights, expanding its control over Syrian territory.

Israel claims these actions are aimed at ensuring the safety of its citizens, while others suggest Israel is leveraging the situation to weaken its long-time adversary.

The Alleged Chemical Weapon Threat

Israel is particularly concerned about the potential for chemical weapons and Bashar al-Assad’s missile stockpiles to fall into extremist hands. Although the extent and location of these weapons in Syria remain uncertain, they are believed to have been stockpiled by Assad as a deterrent.

In 2018, suspected chemical attacks occurred in Douma near Damascus, reportedly carried out by Assad-aligned forces. Chemical agents like sarin and chlorine gas have been linked to attacks over the years, with some accusations pointing to both pro-Assad forces and opposition groups.

Ake Sellström, a former UN weapons inspector in Syria, noted that Israel’s airstrikes are designed to target chemical weapons facilities. “Israel aims to destroy resources,” he told the BBC. “This includes personnel, infrastructure, and equipment.”

Israel’s Strategic Concerns in Syria

Israel has stated that its military actions are preventive measures to stop weapons, particularly long-range missiles and chemical arms, from reaching extremist groups. These strikes have targeted military sites across Syria, from Aleppo in the north to Damascus in the south, including weapons depots, airports, and research facilities.

Rami Abdul Rahman, founder of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), reported over 310 Israeli attacks since Assad’s regime fell on Sunday, with a focus on dismantling Syria’s military capabilities. “Syrian sovereignty has been violated,” he said.

The Golan Heights and Broader Implications

The Golan Heights, a contested region, has long been a flashpoint. Israel captured much of the area during the 1967 Six-Day War and annexed it in 1981—a move widely unrecognized internationally. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced Israel’s military occupation of a defense zone in the region, describing it as a temporary measure to ensure security.

Arab states have condemned this occupation as a “flagrant violation” of the 1974 disengagement agreements. Some reports suggest Israeli forces advanced as close as 25 kilometers from Damascus, but military sources deny such claims.

The Bigger Picture

Israel’s military strategy reflects its concerns over the power vacuum in Syria and the potential for hostile forces to emerge near its borders. According to Dr. H.A. Hellyer of the Royal United Services Institute, Israel aims to preempt threats by ensuring no adversarial groups can consolidate power in the region.

Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that airstrikes targeted strategic weapons systems, such as chemical weapons and long-range missiles, to prevent their acquisition by extremists.

However, experts like Prof. Gilbert Achcar of SOAS, University of London, argue that Israel’s extensive air campaign weakens Syria overall. “More than 300 airstrikes aren’t just about destroying chemical weapons; they aim to make Syria weaker,” he said.

Israel’s actions, rooted in security concerns, reflect its strategic objective to prevent a hostile entity from emerging amid Syria’s fragmentation. As Prof. Achcar concluded, Israel perceives Assad as a “devil they know,” but the uncertainty of Syria’s future poses new challenges.

Israel is attacking Syria due to security concerns and to protect its national interests. The conflict between the two nations has been ongoing, and Israel views the presence of certain groups and activities in Syria as a threat. The attacks aim to safeguard Israel’s borders and deter potential threats. Please note that the provided text is for reference purposes only and may require further refinement or contextualization.

The bigger picture is a concept that encourages individuals to consider the broader implications and long-term consequences of their actions. By adopting this perspective, one can make more informed decisions and contribute to positive change on a larger scale. Embracing the bigger picture fosters a sense of responsibility and accountability, leading to a more thoughtful and sustainable approach to life and decision-making.