Israel Calls on Europe to Reassess Support for Syria Amid Violence

Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar urges Europe to reconsider its support for Syria’s transitional authorities in light of recent violence that has resulted in significant civilian casualties. He warns against legitimizing a regime connected to terrorism and highlights the need for Europe to recognize the realities of the situation. The conflict has resulted in over a thousand deaths, leading to increased tension in the region.

Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, has appealed to Europe during a recent interview with Germany’s Bild newspaper, urging the continent to reconsider its approach towards Syria following tragic clashes that have resulted in numerous civilian casualties. He emphasized that Europe must not continue to legitimize Syria’s transitional authorities, which have been linked to violent actions and terrorism. Saar remarked, “Europe must not fail in reading the reality. It must wake up. It must stop granting legitimacy to a regime whose first actions… are these atrocities.”

Recent confrontations in Syria resulted from clashes between newly established security forces and loyalists of former President Bashar al-Assad. These violent events reportedly led to mass killings, marking the most severe unrest since Assad’s removal. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the death toll has reached over a thousand, including 745 Alawite civilians and numerous security personnel.

Saar criticized the international community’s engagement with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, claiming, “the international community in general, and Europe in particular, has flocked to Damascus in recent months to shake hands. However,… [Sharaa’s] men were jihadists and remain jihadists, even if they now wear suits.” He pointed out the severity of the recent violence, noting, “This weekend, the masks came off, as men mercilessly massacred their own people.”

Notably, Sharaa’s group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, has ties to Al-Qaeda and is viewed as a terrorist organization by several nations, including the United States. Despite this, Syria’s new leadership has sought to ease international sanctions imposed during the civil conflict. Recently, the European Union has shown willingness to lessen sanctions on Syria’s key sectors to support reconstruction efforts.

In response to the ongoing conflict, Israel has maintained a military presence in the Golan Heights, a strategic location adjacent to Syria. Israeli forces have also conducted air strikes targeting Syrian military assets, reflecting the heightened tensions in the region.

Overall, the situation in Syria remains volatile, and Saar’s comments highlight pressing concerns regarding the legitimacy of the new Syrian authorities and the implications for regional security.

The article outlines Israel’s call to Europe to reevaluate its stance toward Syria following severe violence and civilian deaths. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticizes the legitimacy accorded to Syria’s new regime and the consequences of historical ties with extremist groups. Amidst ongoing conflict, including air strikes and international engagement, the article underscores the complexity of the situation, suggesting a need for a more cautious approach by European countries regarding Syria’s future.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com