Israel’s Foreign Minister urges Europe to stop legitimizing Syria’s authorities following violent clashes that caused over 1,000 deaths. He emphasizes that Europe must recognize the terrorist background of Syria’s new leadership and reassess its diplomatic stance. The easing of EU sanctions on Syria complicates these issues, as Israel maintains military operations in the region.
Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Saar, urged European countries to cease recognizing Syria’s transitional authorities following a recent surge in violence that resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths. In an interview with Germany’s Bild newspaper, he emphasized that Europe needs to “wake up” to the realities on the ground and stop legitimizing a regime that has a history of terrorist activities.
Clashes erupted along Syria’s Mediterranean coast between the new security forces and loyalists of the former government, leading to mass killings and representing the worst violence since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, 745 Alawite civilians and numerous security personnel and pro-Assad fighters were killed, raising the death toll to 1,018.
Saar criticized the international community, particularly Europe, for engaging with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, whom he labeled as having a jihadist background despite his current political role. He described the violence of recent days as revealing the true nature of Syria’s new leaders, who are affiliated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham—a group rooted in Al-Qaeda and labeled as a terrorist organization by various nations, including the U.S.
Despite calls from the new Syrian government to relax sanctions implemented during the civil war, the European Union recently eased restrictions on Syria’s energy and transport sectors to assist in reconstruction efforts. In the backdrop, Israel continues to maintain military presence in the Golan Heights and has conducted airstrikes on Syrian military targets, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
In summary, Israel’s Foreign Minister calls for Europe to reassess its approach to Syria, particularly after recent violent clashes leading to significant civilian casualties. The ongoing legitimacy granted to Syria’s transitional leadership despite their violent actions and extremist affiliations raises concerns for regional stability. Additionally, the easing of sanctions by the EU highlights the complexities in the West’s engagement strategy with Syria and its leadership.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
