What’s happening
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a significant press conference in Jerusalem for the first time in 99 days, amidst the turbulent landscape of the Middle East. During the meeting, he affirmed the perpetual solidity of Israel’s hold on the Golan Heights and attributed the destabilization of the Syrian regime to Israeli action against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian moves.
Why it matters
This press conference signals Israel’s strategic successes and proactive stance on regional security. Netanyahu’s declaration of Golan Heights’ inseparability from Israel draws a firm line on territorial sovereignty. By linking Assad’s regime collapse to Israel’s military maneuvers, Netanyahu sets the tone for Israel’s influence in altering unfavorable geopolitical dynamics in the region.
Driving the news
Netanyahu applauded historical recognition from U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019 supporting Israel’s claim to the Golan. He hailed the effectiveness of targeted actions against Hassan Nasrallah and the broader Iranian-backed alliance, cementing Israel’s role in reshaping Middle Eastern dynamics under dubious threats.
The big picture
Following the Syrian regime’s collapse, Netanyahu aims for transforming Syria by reiterating Israel’s continuing support embodied by the humanitarian efforts seen at the beginning of the Syrian civil war. With positive dialogue regarding a hostage agreement with Hamas gaining traction, Israel noticeably advances regional peace and stability despite its own internal challenges.
What they’re saying
Upon his visit near the Syrian border, Netanyahu underscored the momentous day regarding Assad regime’s downfall and saw this as new opportunities interwoven with perils for Israel. Preparing for testified accountability before the court does not deter him nor the Israeli resolve in protecting their sovereign enclave strongly amid regional shifts.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.