Russia Enhances Military Presence Near Golan Heights to Curb Israeli Actions

The Russian military has increased its presence in southern Syria to prevent potential Israeli escalations, particularly near the Golan Heights. Recent Israeli efforts to construct a separation wall have led to UN condemnation, and former Israeli officials have issued strong warnings against Syria’s use by hostile forces. Amid increased Israeli airstrikes, Russian operations are focused on bolstering security and stability in the region.

The Russian military has augmented its presence across nine observation posts in southern Syria, collaborating closely with the Syrian government to mitigate potential escalations from Israel, as reported by Lebanese daily Al Akhbar on November 19. These enhancements are concentrated in the Daraa and Quneitra regions, adjacent to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, where Israel has recently intensified efforts to erect a “separation wall.” This initiative echoes similar walls constructed along its borders with Lebanon, Egypt, Gaza, and within the West Bank.

Recently, the United Nations condemned Israel for transgressing a half-century ceasefire agreement with Syria following the commencement of construction on this wall. Satellite imagery released by Associated Press confirmed extensive development, including a 7.5-kilometer road paving effort along the Alpha Line, with Israeli armored vehicles and tanks providing security.

In April, former Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman issued a stark warning, stating, “If Syria continues to be used as a logistical base for our enemies, we will simply seize the Syrian part of Mount Hermon and will not relinquish it until further notice.” This statement underscores the strategic tensions surrounding the Golan Heights region.

Amidst these developments, Russian and Syrian forces have ramped up their operations against factions supported by western powers. Al Akhbar notes that Russian troops are enhancing security through both aerial and ground surveillance, assuring the return of displaced residents and the maintenance of stability in an area previously occupied by Israeli-aligned militants prior to a Russian-brokered disengagement that restored control to the Syrian government in Damascus.

Haidar Mustafa, a columnist for The Cradle, asserted that all Israeli actions in the Golan Heights, including the imposition of citizenship, settlement expansions, and the construction of a separation wall, remain gross violations of international law. Moreover, Israeli airstrikes against Syrian targets surged particularly since the intensification of conflict in Lebanon, with near-daily assaults impacting major urban centers and some close to Russian bases in Latakia, triggering the activation of Russian air defenses in response.

The geopolitical situation surrounding the Golan Heights remains highly sensitive, particularly regarding Israeli incursions and military presence. The region’s significant strategic value has led to ongoing military escalations and heightened tensions between Israel and Syria, as well as involvement from other international actors, notably Russia. The recent Israeli endeavors to construct a separation wall have drawn condemnation from global entities, further complicating the delicate balance of power in this contested area. Russian forces now play a crucial role in overseeing and securing stability in southern Syria, which has been historically intertwined with Israeli military interests.

In conclusion, the current situation in southern Syria reflects a complex interplay of military strategy and diplomatic maneuvers between Russian and Israeli forces. Russia’s increased military presence seeks to reinforce Syria’s stability against potential Israeli escalations, while Israel’s construction of a separation wall raises significant legal and diplomatic questions. The ongoing tensions underscore the intricate dynamics of power in this historically contentious region, with international law calling into question the legitimacy of actions taken by Israel in the Golan Heights.

Original Source: thecradle.co