Syria Offers to Deploy in Border Areas if Israel Withdraws, UN Mediates Tensions
In a high-stakes diplomatic move, Syria has signaled its readiness to deploy forces in contested border areas, but only if Israel withdraws its troops. This growth comes amid escalating tensions in the Golan Heights, a region that has been a flashpoint for decades.
During a meeting in Damascus on Wednesday, Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al Shaibani and Defense Minister Marhaf Abu Qasra assured Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary for peace Operations, of Syria’s willingness to cooperate with the United Nations.The Syrian officials emphasized that their deployment would align with the 1974 mandate, which established a ceasefire and created the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) to oversee the separation of Israeli and Syrian forces.
“During the meeting, it was stressed that Syria is willing to cooperate fully with the UN and to cover its positions on the border, in accordance with the 1974 mandate, on condition that the Israeli forces withdraw instantly,” the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.
The meeting also included Patrick Goucha, the acting chief of the UNDOF mission, who reiterated the UN’s commitment to resolving the issue and restoring stability. The UNDOF expressed its readiness to support demining operations and coordinate efforts to clear war remnants, ensuring a safer environment for Syrian civilians.
This diplomatic push follows a controversial declaration by Israeli Defense Minister Israel katz,who declared that Israeli forces would remain indefinitely on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights. Katz had previously described the deployment as temporary, citing security concerns during the winter months.
the move has drawn sharp criticism from Arab nations and the UN. Secretary-General António Guterres labeled it a violation of the 1974 territorial agreement between Israel and Syria. Local residents on the Syrian side have also protested, calling on the international community to halt Israel’s advance.
The Golan Heights has been a contentious region as Israel seized control during the 1967 Middle East war. Despite international calls for withdrawal, Israel has maintained its presence, further complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace.
Key Developments at a Glance
| Event | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Syria’s Offer | Will deploy in border areas if Israel withdraws, per 1974 mandate. |
| Israeli Deployment | Forces remain indefinitely on Syrian side of Mount Hermon. |
| UN Involvement | UNDOF commits to demining and restoring stability. |
| International Reaction | UN and Arab nations criticize Israel’s move as a violation of 1974 accord. |
As tensions simmer, the international community watches closely. Will Israel heed calls for withdrawal, or will the Golan Heights remain a battleground for geopolitical strife? The answer could shape the future of the region.
For more on the history of the Golan Heights and its role in Middle Eastern conflicts, explore this detailed analysis here.
