Hazem Alghabra, a former U.S. State Department adviser, advocates for Israel to extend a peace message to Syria to move away from extremist ideologies. He emphasizes Israel’s emerging role as a regional superpower, suggesting it must engage with Syria not only defensively but also economically. The discussion highlights the need to reframe perceptions of Syrian leadership and promote a constructive dialogue focused on peace and collaboration.
In a recent roundtable hosted by The Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs, Hazem Alghabra, a former senior adviser from the U.S. State Department, emphasized the importance of Israeli officials extending a message of peace towards Syria. He argued that fostering goodwill could help divert the Syrian populace away from extremist ideologies. Observing the aftermath of potential changes in Syria post-Assad, Alghabra posits that Israel should recognize its emerging status as a regional superpower and act accordingly.
Alghabra reassured attendees that current military threats against Israeli troops from the Golan Heights are minimal, referring to the Druze-controlled area as a supportive “second buffer zone.” He maintained that recent regional dynamics position Israel as a formidable adversary, noting the lack of direct interest from Turkey or Iran in engaging with Israel militarily.
He argues for a broader Israeli strategy that not only focuses on defense but also considers economic collaboration with Syria, particularly in areas such as irrigation. Alghabra called for reframing interactions with Syrian leadership away from characterizations of terrorist groups like Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham, advocating for a strategic and constructive engagement instead.
This idea of a “victor’s peace” relates back to historical U.S. examples where compassion from the victorious facilitated reconciliation. Alghabra believes that Israel, in its stronger position, has the opportunity to initiate true peace efforts, leveraging its resources to help with Syria’s economic needs without legitimizing extremist elements.
Additionally, Dan Diker from JCFA supported Alghabra’s perspective, urging Israel to embrace its pivotal role in the region by reaching out to Syria not through flattery but from a position of strength. Delegates also discussed the transition in Syrian leadership, noting complications arising from Julani’s past association with al-Qaeda. Amid these dynamics, attention was drawn to the international community’s reception of the new leadership and the potential pitfalls of aligning too closely with fringe elements in the political landscape, especially from a European perspective.
The article discusses a recent roundtable dialogue led by Hazem Alghabra, a former U.S. State Department adviser, focusing on the potential changes for Israel-Syria relations in the context of shifting power dynamics in the Middle East following the Assad regime’s decline. Alghabra suggests that Israel must embrace its status as a regional superpower and reconsider its diplomatic strategy towards Syria, particularly in light of ongoing conflicts and the emerging leadership in Syria. The context highlights recent Israeli military operations and the geopolitical environment surrounding Israel, involving neighboring countries.
The article underscores the necessity for Israel to adapt to its new status as a regional superpower by fostering peaceful communication with Syria and engaging economically. Alghabra’s insights reveal a strategic path for Israel that emphasizes outreach, potential cooperation, and a constructive approach to new Syrian leadership. By reassessing perceptions of Syria and prioritizing a peace initiative, Israel could significantly alter its regional interactions and contribute positively to Syrian stability.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
