Recent Israeli military operations in Syria, such as targeted airstrikes and troop incursions into the Golan buffer zone, have attracted international attention and condemnation. But Israel's ambassador to the United Nations, Danny Danon, insisted that the actions did not signify an attempt to interfere in Syrian internal affairs but rather to secure Israel's borders in a time of turmoil.
Securing Borders Amid Regional Instability
Daniel told Fox News Digital, "We are not getting involved in what's happening domestically inside Syria. But we have concerns about our border." That follows dramatic shifts in Syria, including the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad and a power vacuum that has resulted.
A number of Israeli airstrikes have targeted military and chemical weapons sites, amid fears such dangerous assets might fall into hostile hands. The breakdown of the Assad regime introduces uncertainty about which forces may come forward and what their ideologies will look and sound like in comparison with Israel and the broader international community.
Buffer Zone Operations and Regional Reactions
For the first time since the 1973 Mideast war, Israeli troops entered the Golan buffer zone. So far, this move has drawn condemnation from neighboring Arab nations, including Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia, which accused Israel of taking advantage of Syria's turmoil. But Israel claims that its actions are defensive and aimed at stability on its borders.
The Role of Iran and Emerging Concerns
The waning Iranian influence in Syria is a principal factor concerning Israel. Over the years, Iran has been one of the leading players in the region, investing deeply in Assad's regime. Danon described the potential of Syria's changed political landscape to lessen Tehran's sway in the region as "an achievement." However, he was wary of extremist groups such as al Qaeda that have been part of Assad's overthrow.
"We have to remember that it's not like a peaceful revolution. You know, they walked with al Qaeda and other terrorist organizations. So, we have to pay attention to that," Danon warned.
The Way Forward
As Syria grapples with the aftermath of Assad’s fall, the question of who will seize power remains uncertain. Israel’s measured involvement reflects a careful balance—acting to safeguard its national security while steering clear of Syria’s internal politics.
The international community will be watching closely how this power shift plays out, and how regional actors-most particularly Israel-come to terms with a post-Assad Syria. For the time being, Israel watches its borders, hoping not to escalate further, yet remaining vigilant against emergent threats.