The Path Forward in Syria

As President-elect Donald Trump emphasized during his campaign and post-election statements, the United States has little appetite for deeper entanglement in Syria. However, the U.S. still exerts significant influence over the region through proxies, controlling nearly one-third of Syria, particularly in the resource-rich northeastern areas. This delicate position underscores the need for a viable long-term solution that aligns with regional stability and U.S. interests while avoiding further direct involvement.

Israel, with its deep understanding of the region's complexities, emerges as a uniquely qualified actor to step into a peacekeeping role. Israel's familiarity with Syria's sectarian dynamics, including its nuanced understanding of Arab, Muslim, and Druze communities, positions it to address the challenges that have long eluded external powers. Israel's proven ability to balance democratic governance with security concerns could offer a template for transitioning control from U.S. proxies to a framework that fosters democratization and demilitarization.

By partnering with the United States in this endeavor, Israel could play a pivotal role in stabilizing Syria and building a foundation for sustainable peace. This approach not only aligns with Israel's strategic interests but also with its historical commitment to securing its borders and promoting regional stability. Such a transition would mark a significant step toward resolving one of the most intractable conflicts in the modern Middle East, leveraging Israel's strengths and the U.S.'s strategic disengagement to chart a new course for Syria and its people.

Israel's Role in Syria's Transformation