Recent days have witnessed a large-scale Israeli offensive against Syria, with Israeli occupation forces launching intense strikes that have reportedly decimated the strategic capabilities of the Syrian military. According to Israeli media, this operation marks one of the most significant military actions since the 1967 war. However, despite its claimed success, Israel now faces growing concerns over the stability of Egypt and Jordan.
The Largest Offensive Since 1967
Israeli journalist Yoav Limor, writing for Israel Hayom, described the offensive on Syria as unprecedented in scale. He argued that the strikes have effectively brought the Syrian military back to “square one.”
Limor detailed the operation, which involved the destruction of key Syrian military assets, including:
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- Fighter jets.
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- Tanks.
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- Air defense systems.
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- Weapons production facilities.
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- Strategic infrastructure.
The collapse of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime earlier this week served as the primary trigger for the escalation, according to Limor. Israel reportedly feared that advanced weapons from Syria’s military stockpile might fall into the hands of extremist groups, such as Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham.
Israel’s Strategic Shift in Syria
The article emphasized that Israel relied on decades of accumulated intelligence to carry out precise and widespread strikes across Syria, aiming to neutralize potential threats. Limor noted that this offensive represents a dramatic shift in Israel’s strategy toward Syria.
Previously, Israel had preferred the “devil they know” — the Assad regime — over the uncertainty of unknown groups that could take his place. However, the report stressed that the situation in Syria remains highly uncertain, with Israeli intelligence now tasked with monitoring armed groups that could pose an even greater threat than the Syrian military.
Operation “Arrow of Bashan”
Military journalist Avi Ashkenazi provided further insights into the Israeli operation, which was dubbed “Arrow of Bashan.” Writing for Maariv, Ashkenazi revealed that the Israeli army had nearly obliterated Syria’s military infrastructure, leaving behind only a handful of outdated aircraft and scattered tanks.
The primary objective of the operation, according to Ashkenazi, was to prevent Hezbollah and other armed groups from seizing Syrian weapons and turning them into direct threats against Israel. Despite the military success, the operation has sparked increased anxiety within Israel about regional stability, particularly in Egypt and Jordan.
Concerns Over Egypt and Jordan
Ashkenazi reported that, following the destruction of the Syrian military, Israel now faces new challenges related to Egypt and Jordan. Israeli security officials are closely monitoring developments in both countries, fearing that:
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- Iranian Influence: Tehran could exploit the regional chaos to destabilize Egypt and Jordan.
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- Muslim Brotherhood Resurgence: There is concern about a potential re-emergence of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt’s political sphere.
Ashkenazi revealed that Israel’s Shin Bet chief and military Chief of Staff recently made an unannounced visit to Egypt, where discussions focused on stabilizing the situation rather than merely addressing prisoner-related issues.
Strengthening Eastern Borders
In response to these concerns, Israel is reinforcing its eastern border with Jordan. Efforts include the construction of a new military unit and a security wall costing billions of dollars. These measures are intended to counter any unforeseen developments stemming from the ongoing regional instability.
Uncertainty in Syria and Regional Tensions
Both Israel Hayom and Maariv concluded that Israel’s concerns persist despite its military achievements. The uncertainty surrounding Syria’s future after Assad, coupled with heightened tensions in neighboring countries, has left Israel on high alert. As regional dynamics evolve, Israel is bracing for potential escalations that could challenge its security on multiple fronts.
Conclusion
Israel’s large-scale offensive in Syria may have crippled the Syrian military, but it has also ushered in new regional challenges. With the collapse of Assad’s regime and the rising uncertainty in Egypt and Jordan, Israel’s focus has shifted toward safeguarding its borders and preventing regional instability from spiraling out of control. Meanwhile, the long-term consequences of its actions in Syria remain to be seen.
