Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with outgoing White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Thursday in Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable minorities in Syria. These groups include Christians, Druze, Kurds, and others who face significant threats amidst ongoing conflict.
Netanyahu and Sullivan discussed regional developments following the ousting of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad by Sunni Muslim rebel groups, some linked to Al Qaeda and ISIS. While Netanyahu acknowledged the fall of Assad as a potential opportunity, he also warned of the dangers posed to religious and ethnic minorities in Syria. These include Christians, the Alawite group tied to Assad’s family, Kurds in the north, and Druze communities in the west.
A statement from the Israeli Government Press Office underscored Israel’s commitment to preventing atrocities against these minorities. Netanyahu urged U.S.-Israel cooperation to safeguard these vulnerable populations and ensure regional stability.
To bolster security, Netanyahu instructed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to temporarily control the buffer zone in Syria and enforce the 1974 Separation of Forces Agreement. This move aims to prevent terrorist activity against Israel and mitigate the risks posed by the Syrian rebels. The IDF has conducted numerous airstrikes and naval operations to prevent Syrian military resources, particularly chemical weapons, from falling into rebel hands.
The IDF’s operations include troop deployments into former demilitarized zones and strategic locations such as Mount Hermon, with reports indicating deeper incursions into Syrian territory. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s resolve to defend its national security while working to protect at-risk minorities in the region.
