Israeli actions are increasingly seen as a pivotal threat to the stability of the Middle East, according to Syria’s representative to the United Nations. In a recent address to the UN Security Council, Ibrahim Olabi highlighted Israel’s military activities as a significant menace not only to Syria but to the entire region. This assertion follows a collective condemnation from 44 countries regarding an unauthorized visit by Israeli officials to Mount Hermon, deemed a violation of international law.
Syria’s Position on Israeli Actions
During his speech, Olabi characterized Israel’s aggressive maneuvers as unprovoked responses to Syria’s ongoing engagement in US-sponsored discussions aimed at security. He described Israel’s actions—airstrikes, incursions, and military assaults—as violations of the diplomatic spirit, emphasizing that while Syria seeks peaceful solutions, it will not compromise its territorial integrity or the rights of its people. This call for diplomatic dialogue does not imply acceptance of occupation, as Syria continues to collaborate with regional allies based on mutual consent.
Olabi further emphasized the integration of diverse communities within Syrian state structures. He pointed out that Syrian Kurds have assimilated into governmental frameworks, and Syrian Jews are in the process of restoring their synagogues. Moreover, he indicated that Druze leaders, having refrained from endorsing foreign influence, now have a presence in parliament, countering Israeli narratives about division within Syrian society.
Türkiye’s Stance as a Responsible Neighbor
Türkiye has also expressed its disapproval of Israel’s military actions in southern Syria. The Turkish mission condemned the ongoing strikes, which target both infrastructure and the sovereignty of Syrian territories. According to Turkish envoy Ahmet Yildiz, such high-profile visits to occupied regions are provocative, asserting that strengthening Syria’s national capacities is a sovereign right independent of Israeli interests. Türkiye portrays itself as a ‘responsible state’ focused on civilian protection and collaboration on reconstruction projects, garnering the consent of the Syrian government.
International Calls for Immediate Israeli Withdrawal
There is a growing consensus among UN Council members and regional groups advocating for a swift cessation of Israeli military operations in Syria. Countries such as Russia and China have characterized Israel’s aggressive actions as unacceptable, urging the nation to cease operations in the Golan Heights and withdraw to previously established lines in line with international agreements. Russia condemned Israel’s incursions and called for a halt to military operations that undermine peace.
Notably, Oman, representing the Arab Group, condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure, explicitly referencing strikes on locations like Abu al-Duhur airport. The UK and France have joined calls for a clear timeline for Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories, while the A3 bloc—comprising the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Liberia, and Somalia—has insisted on an end to unilateral actions across borders. Bahrain and Pakistan have echoed these demands, highlighting a consistent international stance for Israel’s return of occupied land.
The United States has advocated for mutual restraint, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic channels. Since Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights in 1967 and its annexation in 1981, actions have faced significant global opposition. Following the downfall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in late 2024, Israeli forces moved into demilitarized zones, claiming that existing agreements had lapsed. The entire situation has left many stakeholders awaiting meaningful solutions to restore peace and stability to the broader region.