Israel’s Greater Israel Ambitions Continue as Zionist Troops Invade Syria After Bashar al-Assad’s Ouster
Israel’s Expansionist Moves in Syria Spark Fears of ‘Greater Israel‘
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DAMASCUS – Israel’s military incursion into Syria following the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has reignited concerns about the country’s long-held ambition of establishing a ”Greater Israel.”
The move, which saw Israeli forces enter the demilitarized zone in the occupied Golan Heights on Sunday, December 8th, came shortly after rebel forces captured Damascus, forcing Assad to flee to Russia.
In a video statement circulating on social media, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the 1974 Israel-Syria agreement establishing the demilitarized zone was null and void after Syrian forces withdrew from their positions. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described the operation as an effort to create a new security zone free from terrorist infrastructure.
The Israeli action has drawn sharp criticism from arab nations surrounding Syria, with some suggesting that it represents a step towards realizing the controversial “Greater Israel” concept.
The ambitions of ‘Greater Israel’
The idea of “Greater Israel” refers to the expansionist vision of a Jewish state encompassing territories beyond its current borders. This vision is rooted in interpretations of ancient Jewish lands as described in the Bible.
Proponents of “Greater Israel,” often associated with Zionist ideology, envision a state stretching from the Nile River to the Euphrates River. This would include territories currently belonging to Palestine,southern Lebanon,the Syrian Golan Heights,parts of Jordan,and the Sinai Peninsula.
Israel’s recent actions in Syria, coupled with its previous invasion of Lebanon in 2006, raise concerns that the country is actively pursuing this expansionist agenda.
A Step towards Damascus?
Adding fuel to the fire, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made a controversial statement in October 2024 during an interview for a French documentary titled “Israel: Extremists in Power.” When asked about the possibility of Israel extending its sovereignty beyond its current borders, Smotrich responded with a cryptic smile, saying “okay, little by little.”
This statement,along with Israel’s recent incursion into Syria,has intensified fears that the country is inching closer to realizing its “Greater Israel” ambitions,perhaps even reaching as far as Damascus.
Israel’s Expanding Footprint: A Conversation with Dr. Elias Nader
NewsDirect3.com: Dr. Nader, Israel’s recent military movement into Syria has sparked significant international concern. Could you shed some light on the situation and its potential implications?
Dr. Elias Nader: The situation in Syria is complex and deeply worrying. Israel’s justification for entering the demilitarized zone, citing the collapse of the Assad regime and the withdrawal of Syrian forces, raises serious questions about their long-term objectives.
NewsDirect3.com: Many are drawing parallels between this incursion and the concept of “Greater Israel.” What are your thoughts on this connection?
dr. Elias Nader: The idea of “Greater Israel,” while not officially endorsed by the Israeli government, is a significant ideological current within certain political and religious circles in Israel. This concept envisions an expanded Jewish state encompassing territories far beyond current borders – including parts of lebanon, Syria, jordan, and even Palestine.
NewsDirect3.com: How do you interpret the Israeli Finance Minister’s recent statement about expanding Israeli sovereignty “little by little”?
Dr. Elias Nader: these types of statements,even when presented ambiguously,contribute to a climate of fear and uncertainty. They fuel the concerns of those who see these actions as incremental steps towards realizing the “Greater Israel” vision.
NewsDirect3.com: What are the potential ramifications of Israel’s actions in Syria,both regionally and globally?
Dr. Elias Nader: The ramifications are far-reaching and potentially destabilizing. This incursion into Syrian territory significantly heightens tensions in an already volatile region, risking further conflict and instability. On a global scale, it could undermine international efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the israeli-Palestinian conflict and destabilize the Middle East.
NewsDirect3.com: Doctor, thank you for your insightful analysis.
Dr. Elias Nader: You are most welcome.