‘Fall of Assad offers us historic opportunities’, says Israeli top politician
Benny Gantz gives a statement in Tel Aviv after giving up his coalition-building bid on November 20, 2019. (Jack Guez/AFP)
The fall of the Assad regime in Syria presents a “historic opportunity,” according to National Unity chairman Benny Gantz.
Speaking in the Knesset, Gantz urged Israel to strengthen ties with Syrian groups such as the Druze and Kurds and to leverage the situation to weaken Hezbollah’s influence in Lebanon. He emphasized that Israel should aim to bring Lebanon into “the circle of moderate states.”
Despite Assad’s downfall, Gantz warned against underestimating Iran, calling it a “wounded but more dangerous” adversary. He raised concerns about Iran’s nuclear ambitions, calling them a “realistic possibility,” and advocated for “rapid and dramatic action” to counter the threat.
“We must build our own ‘ring of fire’ — regionally, economically, and legally — and ready ourselves for swift military action,” Gantz said, proposing a strategy that combines regional alliances and military readiness.
Gantz highlighted the importance of collaboration with Saudi Arabia and other nations within the Abraham Accords framework, aiming to normalize relations with Syria and Lebanon based on Israeli strength. “Normalization vs. ‘Iranization,’ that is what is at stake,” he stated.
Addressing security concerns, Gantz underlined Israel’s stance against Iranian activities near its borders, declaring that “no Iranian shipment will cross into Syria” and “no Iranian foothold” will be tolerated.
On domestic matters, Gantz criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s handling of hostage negotiations with Hamas, insisting there is “no excuse” for delays and urging action free from political pressure.
