What happened?

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the collapse of Bashar Assad’s regime in Syria, citing Israeli interventions against Hezbollah and Iran as key triggers. The developments unfolded as Islamist rebels took control of Damascus, prompting Assad’s exile.

Why it matters

This is considered a pivotal moment, marking the end of Assad’s rule and a testament to the impact of Israeli defensive actions. Netanyahu highlights both potential opportunities for regional improvement and the heightened risks associated with this power shift.

The details

In a recent public statement, Netanyahu emphasized how Israeli strategies against Iran and Hezbollah catalyzed change in Syria, leading to a secondary wave of liberation from tyranny in the region. The Israeli Prime Minister acknowledged the transformational potential in Syria, while reinforcing readiness for regional shifts.

Strategic military response

Following the Syrian Army’s withdrawal near Israel’s border, Netanyahu confirmed that the Israel Defense Forces stepped in to secure the former Syrian positions. This is a temporary measure to safeguard Israel’s borders and prevent the establishment of hostile forces in proximity to Israel during the transition in Syria.

The broader impact

Netanyahu extended an olive branch, offering the “hand of peace” to regional communities, including Druze, Kurds, Christians, and Muslims desiring peaceful coexistence. Recognizing the volatile nature of this transformation, Netanyahu reassures that Israel remains vigilant and ready to defend its sovereignty while exploring opportunities for positive bilateral relations.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.