aljazeera.com
Israel Builds Military Bases in Syrian Demilitarized Zone
Between December 19, 2024, and February 1, 2025, Israel built seven military bases in and around the Golan Heights demilitarized zone, violating a 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria, despite the new Syrian government's commitment to upholding it. This is due to the Israeli government's assertion that the agreement is invalid as it was made with a deposed regime.
- What are the immediate consequences of Israel's construction of military bases in the Syrian demilitarized zone?
- Satellite images show Israel constructing seven military bases in and near the demilitarized zone (DMZ) between Israel and Syria, between December 19, 2024 and February 1, 2025. This violates the 1974 ceasefire agreement, which established the DMZ. The construction includes roads and is located in several specific areas west of Hadar village and other locations within the Golan Heights.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Israel's actions for regional stability and the future of the Golan Heights?
- The construction of these bases indicates a significant shift in Israeli policy toward Syria. Given Israel's history of annexing occupied territories and the composition of the new Syrian government which includes members of the formerly al-Qaeda linked Hayat Tahrir al-Sham group, future conflicts and a potential escalation of tensions are highly probable. This raises concerns about regional stability and the long-term security of the DMZ.
- How does Israel's justification for its actions in Syria relate to the 1974 ceasefire agreement and the composition of the new Syrian government?
- Israel's actions directly challenge the 1974 ceasefire agreement with Syria, and the new Syrian administration's commitment to maintaining the agreement. The construction of permanent bases, coupled with Israel's stated intention to remain on Mount Hermon indefinitely, suggests a long-term Israeli presence in the disputed territory.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing is somewhat biased against Israel. The headline and introduction immediately present satellite images showing Israeli military activity as evidence of wrongdoing, without initially offering any counter-arguments. The sequence of events is presented chronologically, highlighting the timing of Israeli actions after Assad's departure, which is meant to cast them in a negative light. While the article does present Israel's justifications later, the initial negative impression is already made.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral; however, phrases like "Israel's assertion that it would remain on top of Mount Hermon – which lies in Syria – indefinitely, and its track record of annexing the occupied Golan Heights" carry negative connotations, suggesting aggressive intent. Using more neutral wording like "Israel's stated intention to maintain a presence on Mount Hermon" and "Israel's history of control over the Golan Heights" would reduce the bias.
Bias by Omission
The article omits potential perspectives from international organizations like the UN or other countries involved in the Syrian conflict. It also doesn't mention any potential justifications Israel might have for its actions beyond its own statements. The lack of alternative explanations might lead readers to accept Israel's statements uncritically.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the situation as solely Israel's actions versus the Syrian government's response. It neglects the complexities of the situation, including the power dynamics between Israel and Syria and the involvement of other actors.
Sustainable Development Goals
The construction of Israeli military bases in the demilitarized zone violates the 1974 ceasefire agreement, escalating tensions and undermining regional stability. This action contradicts efforts towards peace and security in the region, and the disregard for the Syrian government's plea for stability further exacerbates the situation. The displacement of Syrian citizens and human rights violations committed by Israeli forces also contribute to the negative impact on peace and justice.