Shifting Alliances: Syria's Silence Amid Israeli Attacks on Iran

The new Syrian government, under President Ahmed al-Shara, has distanced itself from Iran and refused to accommodate its proxies in the wake of Israeli military actions, revealing a marked shift in geopolitical alignments in the region.

In the early hours following Israel's provocative strikes against Iran, reactions from Arab nations emerged, denouncing the assaults as “heinous attacks” and violations of international law. However, amid this widespread condemnation, one notable absence of criticism came from Syria.

Syria's newly established government led by President Ahmed al-Shara has opted for a silent stance regarding Israeli military actions, a move reflecting a significant realignment in the country’s geopolitical posture since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime last December. Previously, Syria had been one of Iran's closest allies, aiding the Islamic Republic in establishing a network of anti-Israel militias throughout the region known as the Axis of Resistance.

The decision to not speak out against Israel comes as al-Shara's government asserts that Iran's proxies are unwelcome on Syrian territory and publicly commits to preventing any armed groups from launching attacks against Israel from Syria. This strategy is part of a broader effort to gather support from Western powers and stems from long-standing animosity towards Iran, which supplied military backing to the former regime during Syria's prolonged civil war.

Analysts suggest this silence is indicative of shifting geopolitical dynamics, as Syria recalibrates its alliances in light of new leadership, marking a notable turn in a region long entrenched in conflict and alliances driven by mutual interests.