Jordan’s media coverage of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s visit was minimal, with significant diplomatic discussions notably absent. King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes and supported Syria’s territorial integrity and refugee return. Strategic cooperation with Turkey and HTS may prompt Jordan to take a more active role in southern Syria, which poses considerable implications for regional stability and Jordanian security.
Jordanian official media displayed limited coverage regarding the recent visit of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to Amman. Following this visit, King Abdullah condemned Israeli airstrikes in Syria and expressed his support for Syria’s territorial integrity. Moreover, he advocated for the voluntary return of Syrian refugees, although the media did not highlight urgent discussions about Israel’s occupation of southern Syria and its implications for regional stability.
Sharaa’s visit was likely influenced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s assertion against the presence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) in southern Syria. Additional comments from Israeli officials suggested a commitment to ensuring the safety of both Druze and Alawite communities, revealing a potentially dangerous agenda concerning Syria’s future and the risk of sectarian fragmentation.
In light of recent developments, the situation in southern Syria has become increasingly critical, particularly following discussions between Jordanian and Turkish officials after the fall of the Assad regime. Jordanian Crown Prince Hussein bin Abdullah met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan before Sharaa’s visit, indicating a need for coordination on matters related to southern Syria, especially in relation to the Druze and Israel’s activities in the region.
A crucial consideration remains whether Jordan will actively engage in southern Syria at the request of HTS, potentially solidifying its influence among the Druze populations, stabilizing Daraa, or establishing a military presence along the Syria-Israel border. Such actions could reinforce Jordan’s security and challenge Israel’s narrative regarding HTS and its associated dangers.
Historically, Jordan has refrained from military involvement in Syria, but current dynamics present a different scenario. If HTS formally requests Jordan’s involvement, it could serve not only to protect Jordanian interests but also to foster Syria’s territorial unity and facilitate the return of refugees. This would also be instrumental in ensuring safe access to vital water resources for Jordan.
Jordan has maintained positive relations with various communities in southern Syria, notably the Druze and Arab tribes. This trust can be utilized to work collaboratively with Damascus, countering more aggressive Israeli actions in the region. Although Jordan has traditionally avoided foreign military entanglements, a cooperative agreement with Damascus could validate its involvement, especially if supported by Turkey and other regional partners.
Timeliness is paramount in addressing these emerging challenges. If King Abdullah and Sharaa did not discuss Jordan’s prospective involvement during their recent meeting, such discussions should be prioritized, possibly through indirect channels with Turkey. Prompt action is essential to counteract the Israeli right’s political narratives which threaten regional stability and pose risks to Jordan’s security.
In conclusion, Jordan faces significant decisions regarding its involvement in southern Syria, particularly in the context of Israeli expansionism. Active participation, if aligned with HTS and other regional powers, could not only reinforce Syria’s territorial integrity but also secure Jordanian national interests. Timely and strategic engagement is essential to counter negative narratives and ensure stability in the region.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
