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Israel’s prolonged presence on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon has sparked concern among Arab diplomats, with growing criticism of Israeli rhetoric and actions.
A senior Arab diplomat, speaking with The Jerusalem Post, warned that Israel’s continued presence on the mountain, particularly recent comments made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, could undermine efforts to foster cooperation and normalization with Arab nations.
Israel’s position on Mount Hermon follows a strategic move to expand the demilitarized buffer zone along the Israeli-Syrian border.
This action was initially described by the Israeli government as temporary, aimed at addressing security concerns in the wake of the collapse of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
However, Netanyahu’s recent remarks during a situational assessment at the Hermon Ridge have raised alarms both domestically and abroad.
“We are here for a situational assessment to decide on Israel’s deployment in this important location until another arrangement is found that ensures the security of the state,” Netanyahu said, standing alongside Defense Minister Katz, IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, and Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar.
He added that Israel would remain on the Syrian side of the mountain until at least the end of 2025 or until a new security arrangement is put in place.
This statement has added fuel to growing tensions in the region. Critics, including senior Arab diplomats, argue that Israel’s continued presence on Mount Hermon could significantly harm its relations with Arab countries, especially those considering normalization agreements.
“Even with all its problems, Syria is still an Arab country,” one diplomat told The Jerusalem Post, emphasizing that Israeli actions might alienate Arab nations already wary of the state’s regional ambitions.
The Israeli presence on Mount Hermon, a strategically significant location overlooking both Syria and Israel, has been a point of contention for years.
Israel seized control of the mountain during the Six-Day War in 1967, and while the international community recognizes it as Syrian territory, Israel has maintained a military presence there for decades.
The recent actions, however, mark an escalation, with Netanyahu and other Israeli officials stating that Israel would maintain its position until at least 2025, potentially signaling a shift in Israel’s military and political calculus.
The rhetoric surrounding Israel’s actions has raised further concerns. Netanyahu’s recent statements have contradicted earlier remarks from Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who characterized the operation as a “limited, temporary” move.
This inconsistency has prompted backlash from Arab diplomats, who view Israel’s rhetoric as undermining efforts to build regional trust.
International players, including the United States, have also weighed in on the matter. The Pentagon reiterated its stance, stating that it believes Israel’s military incursion into Syria is “temporary” and should remain so.
This echoed the concerns of Arab diplomats, who warned that Israel’s extended presence could complicate future normalization agreements and efforts to ease tensions in the region.
The situation on Mount Hermon highlights the delicate balance Israel must maintain between securing its borders and fostering diplomatic relations with its neighbors.
As regional cooperation efforts continue to evolve, the continued Israeli presence in Syria may pose a significant challenge to long-term peace and stability in the Middle East.