The Israeli Channel 11 has reported that the Israeli government sent a message to the Syrian opposition, warning that it “will act forcefully if they dare cross the Israeli-Syrian border or violate the 1974 ceasefire line.” The channel also revealed that this communication marks the opening of a direct channel between Israel and opponents of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime, and that preliminary talks have already taken place between Syrian Kurds and official Israeli representatives.
Initial Contact Between Syrian Kurds and Israel
According to the report, officials in northeastern Syria, the Kurdish stronghold, recently approached official Israeli representatives. This development comes in the wake of statements made by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, who emphasized Israel’s goal of forming alliances with minorities in Syria and Iraq, including the Kurds.
The channel noted that Kurdish forces, which receive U.S. support, have recently deployed in vast areas of northeastern Syria, including Deir ez-Zor and Al-Hasakah, after the Syrian regime was forced to withdraw its forces.
Concerns Over Turkish-Backed Islamist Forces
The report further explained that Kurdish forces are deeply concerned about the advance of rebels, particularly Turkish-backed Islamist factions. Ankara, which has long sought to eliminate Kurdish influence near its borders with Syria, has intensified its efforts. This situation forms the backdrop of the Kurds’ attempts to initiate dialogue with Israel.
Israeli Military Buildup in the Golan Heights
Simultaneously, the report highlighted that the Israeli military has significantly bolstered its presence in the Golan Heights in recent days. Under Division 210, which operates along the Syrian border, thousands of combat troops, infantry soldiers, and tank units have been deployed. Many of these forces had recently participated in ground maneuvers in Lebanon and are now stationed across the Golan Heights to prepare for potential scenarios along the border.
Israeli forces have also recently completed tactical exercises in the region, involving hundreds of soldiers practicing counter-infiltration operations, such as thwarting armed groups attempting to cross into Israeli territory or conducting cross-border attacks.
Strategic Developments and Israeli Preparations
The report added that the Israeli Cabinet has been discussing the evolving situation in Syria and considering potential scenarios that could mirror developments in other neighboring countries, such as Jordan.
This news comes against the backdrop of the armed Syrian opposition’s capture of Damascus on Sunday morning, which led to the fall of Bashar Al-Assad’s regime and the Ba’ath Party, which had ruled Syria for over 60 years. The opposition’s Military Operations Command confirmed the entry of opposition fighters into the capital, while Reuters cited military sources confirming Assad’s escape from the country.
Kurdish-Israeli Cooperation in Context
The Kurdish outreach to Israel reflects growing regional complexities, particularly as the Kurds face increasing isolation due to Turkish aggression and shifting alliances in Syria. Israel’s interest in aligning with Kurdish forces appears rooted in its strategy to counteract hostile elements in Syria, including Iranian-backed forces and Islamist factions supported by Turkey.
This emerging cooperation highlights how geopolitical calculations are reshaping alliances in the region, with minorities like the Kurds seeking new partnerships to ensure their survival amidst escalating threats. Meanwhile, Israel continues to position itself as a player in shaping post-war dynamics in Syria and the broader Middle East.
