US Pressure on Israel: Why Trump Demands Ceasefire in Southern Syria?
The Israeli-Syrian conflict in southern Syria is back in the global spotlight, but this time with an unexpected American twist. The administration of then-US President Donald Trump has reportedly asked Israel to halt attacks on Syrian government forces in southern Syria, Axios reports, citing an unnamed US official.
Israeli Attacks and American Pressure
Israel carried out airstrikes on Syrian government forces in the southwestern part of the country for two consecutive days. While Israeli officials promised to keep the area demilitarized and protect the Druze minority, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs made it clear that Israel bears full responsibility for the consequences of these strikes.
However, in an unusual turn of events, the US administration intervened and requested Israel to cease the attacks, which Israeli officials reportedly agreed to, promising to halt the strikes by evening, according to journalist Barak Ravid.
Clashes and Local Dynamics
Earlier, clashes broke out between Druze-armed Bedouin militants, and the Israeli army confirmed attacks on several tanks in the area, warning that Druze were not targeted. The Syrian Ministry of Interior announced that government forces would enter the center of the city of Sweida, two days after clashes that resulted in nearly 200 casualties.
Druze spiritual and community leaders called on armed factions to cooperate with government forces, not to resist, and to surrender their weapons, further complicating the situation in the region.
Broader Context and International Pressures
This situation unfolds amid tense US-Russia relations, with warnings of possible escalation in the Ukraine conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly warned Trump about plans for escalation, while the US continues to provide military aid to Ukraine.
Simultaneously, US Secretary of State Marko Rubio and his European counterparts have set the end of August as a deadline for reaching a nuclear deal with Iran, adding further complexity to the geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
Why Does This Matter?
This US intervention in the Israeli-Syrian conflict highlights the complexity of the situation in Syria and the broader Middle East, and the entanglement of great power interests. The Trump administration, known for unpredictable moves, sends a clear message with this step that it wants to control the escalation and prevent further destabilization of the region.
Conclusion
While Israel continues to defend its interests and security, and Syria attempts to consolidate control over key areas, US pressure on Israel to halt attacks could be a crucial factor in calming tensions in this part of the world. However, with numerous conflicts and interests at play, the question remains how long this ceasefire will last.
What do you think about this US pressure on Israel? Is it a wise policy or just another attempt to control the chaos in the Middle East? Drop a comment and let the conversation begin!
