Discussions within Israel are intensifying regarding developments on the northern front. Two days ago, Defense Minister Israel Katz chaired a small ministerial meeting preceding an upcoming discussion by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which focused on Turkish involvement in Syria, according to information obtained by Israel Hayom.
The cabinet deliberations covered evolving situations in Syria, particularly addressing concerns regarding de facto leader, the jihadi-linked revolutionary Abu Mohammad al-Julani, and the safety of Druze and Kurdish minority populations in the region. In an effort to enhance regional stability, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Eli Cohen proposed convening an international conference focused on Syria.
Cohen emphasized that the primary objective is securing Israel's northern border while enabling active defense measures against threats posed by rebel organizations operating outside the framework of existing force separation agreements.
The discussions included consideration of a previously explored initiative – which top political and security officials have been examining since the collapse of Bashar Assad's regime – proposing the division of Syria into provincial regions (cantons) to safeguard the security and rights of all Syrian ethnic groups. Minister Cohen suggested this proposal should be examined during the proposed conference.
A primary challenge remains that any initiative associated with Israel would likely face significant resistance within Syria, necessitating these discussions remain classified.
Security officials emphasize that while Israel has no plans for a permanent presence in Syria, it will maintain positions in captured areas until stability is achieved – potentially through such a conference that would facilitate a redefinition of Syria's borders and structure, enabling Israeli forces to withdraw without compromising security interests. Currently, officials across all levels indicate such a scenario remains distant.
