In a recent interview with Stephanie Coueignoux of LiveNOW, Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem in charge of foreign relations, international economic development and tourism, addressed the evolving situation in Syria following the apparent weakening of Hezbollah and the Assad regime. Hassan-Nahoum, a prominent Israeli leader, provided insights into Israel’s strategic responses, the broader challenges in the region, and the potential pathways to stability.
Hezbollah and Assad Regime Under Pressure
Hassan-Nahoum highlighted how Hezbollah—a key ally of the Assad regime—has faced significant setbacks. Israeli military actions targeting Hezbollah’s infrastructure have eroded its operational strength, affecting its ability to dominate alongside Assad in Syria. These developments, she suggested, have created a power vacuum, raising questions about the region’s future.
Syria’s Fragmentation and Factional Conflicts
The prolonged Syrian conflict has fragmented the country, with various factions—including ISIS and Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—jockeying for territorial control. Hassan-Nahoum underscored the challenges this poses for Syria’s reintegration, stating that a cohesive governance structure remains elusive.
Israel’s Defensive Measures and Buffer Zone Strategy
Amid the regional volatility, Israel has intensified its security measures by maintaining a buffer zone along its border with Syria. Hassan-Nahoum emphasized that this strategy is essential for preventing hostile factions from strengthening and posing a direct threat to Israel’s sovereignty. “We are taking proactive steps to ensure that our borders remain secure,” she asserted.
The Need for International Involvement
A major theme of the interview was the necessity of international engagement, particularly from the United States and Western powers. Hassan-Nahoum stressed that previous withdrawals, including the U.S. pullout from Syria, created vacuums that emboldened extremist factions. “Stability will require a coordinated, long-term international effort,” she noted, calling for renewed focus on fostering a transition to a more democratic Syria.
Risks and Opportunities for Peace
While acknowledging the risks posed by Syria’s current instability, Hassan-Nahoum suggested there may also be opportunities. The weakening of Assad and Hezbollah could open pathways for new leadership capable of steering the country toward peace. However, she cautioned that such a process would demand careful diplomacy and cooperation among both local factions and international stakeholders.
Focus on Hostages Held by Hamas
The interview also touched on Israel’s ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Hassan-Nahoum described the situation as a top national priority, emphasizing the need for international pressure on Hamas to ensure the safe return of those abducted. While there are signs that recent developments may encourage negotiations, skepticism remains about Hamas’s true intentions.
Conclusion: Opportunity or Risk?
The interview ultimately posed a critical question: Does the current state of affairs in Syria represent a turning point for peace, or a heightened risk of further chaos? Hassan-Nahoum urged the international community to seize the opportunity for constructive involvement, warning that inaction could allow malign forces, including Iran, to expand their influence in the region.
Her remarks underline the complexity of the situation, where every setback for one actor could lead to unpredictable consequences for the broader Middle East.