The Trap Behind Syrian 'Peace': No Giving Up on the Golan

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared readiness for a peace agreement with Israel but emphasized that Syria does not renounce the Golan Heights. UN Secretary-General Guterres joined in stating that the UN recognizes the Golan as occupied Syrian territory. The article, by Maj. Gen. (res.) Gershon Hacohen, argues that Israel must offer peace without withdrawal from the Golan, warning of a 'trap' in any agreement involving withdrawal.

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa declared this week readiness for a peace agreement with Israel, but simultaneously emphasized that Syria does not renounce the occupied Golan Heights. UN Secretary-General António Guterres joined him in stating that the UN recognizes the Golan as occupied Syrian territory. The article, by Maj. Gen. (res.) Gershon Hacohen, argues that Israel must offer full peace accompanied by the statement that the Golan is not up for negotiation. The author warns of a 'trap' in any agreement involving withdrawal, comparing the situation to Cyprus. He notes that the Golan Heights were captured out of self-defense, and its area is marginal relative to Syria (less than 3%). The author refers to the tradition of cunning in Islam and warns of al-Sharaa's true intentions, while mentioning the building of the Syrian army with offensive capabilities. He calls for learning from past opposition to withdrawal from Sinai, and proposes offering peace while parting from the formula of 'land for peace'.