The interim President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, called for international pressure on Israel to withdraw from southern Syria during his first Arab summit. Sharaa emphasized this followed Israel’s increased military presence in the region and air strikes against Syrian sites. He condemned the Israeli occupation of Golan Heights, asserting that it threatens regional peace. Additionally, he criticized a Trump administration proposal regarding Gaza, calling it unacceptable.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the interim President of Syria, urged the international community during an Arab summit to exert pressure on Israel for an immediate withdrawal of its forces from southern Syria. This statement marked Sharaa’s first appearance at an Arab summit following his ascent to power after the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. Following the ousting of Assad, Israel has maintained a military presence in the UN-patrolled buffer zone along the Golan Heights, a territory occupied since 1967.
Sharaa emphasized that Israel’s military incursions constitute a violation of Syrian sovereignty and pose a threat to regional security. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously expressed his demand for the complete demilitarization of southern Syria and rejected the presence of the new Syrian government in that area. Sharaa’s visit to Cairo was focused on addressing the conflict in Gaza, where he met with various international leaders including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
In recent days, Israel has escalated its military operations in Syria, including air strikes on military targets. Guterres and Sharaa discussed potential pathways for Syria’s future amidst the ongoing challenges faced by the nation. Despite being previously suspended from the Arab League due to Assad’s oppressive response to protests in 2011, Syria has reinstated its presence in the league in 2023.
This summit also addressed concerns over a controversial proposal from former President Donald Trump that suggested relocating Palestinian residents of Gaza to Egypt or Jordan. Sharaa condemned this proposal, labeling it as a significant injustice that must not be permitted. Furthermore, a UN Security Council committee facilitated Sharaa’s attendance at the summit by granting him a travel ban exemption despite his sanctions list status.
In conclusion, the interim President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has made a strong call for international efforts to compel Israel to withdraw its troops from southern Syria, highlighting the implications for regional stability and sovereignty. The ongoing situation remains complex with military escalations on both sides, underlining the critical need for diplomatic engagement and dialogue in resolving these tensions. Sharaa’s presence at the Arab summit signifies a new chapter in Syrian politics as he seeks to navigate the regional dynamics involving Israel and international powers.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
