Netanyahu's Golan Expansion: International Criticism and Political Tensions

The recent plans by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to double the Israeli population in the occupied Golan Heights have elicited sharp criticism worldwide. It is particularly noteworthy that Germany, a close ally of Israel, demanded the abandonment of the plans with a clear appeal, while Turkey accused Israel of wanting to expand its borders through occupation. The Israeli government announced the allocation of 40 million shekels (approximately 11 million dollars) to promote demographic growth in the settlements of the Golan Heights—a territory captured from Syria in 1967 and annexed in 1981. These steps are viewed internationally as illegal. Netanyahu argued that the plan is necessary in light of new frontlines in Syria after an Islamist alliance recently overthrew the Assad regime. The reactions from the international community are unequivocal. Germany emphasized the illegality of Israeli control over the area and labeled Israel as an occupying power. Turkey sees the endeavor as a new stage in Israel's efforts to expand borders through occupation and warns of a further escalation of tensions in the region. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have also sharply condemned the plans. Saudi Arabia accuses Israel of sabotaging Syrian efforts for security and prosperity, while the UAE, one of the few Arab countries recognizing Israel, views the plans as a deliberate attempt to extend occupation. Despite support from former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019, Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights is not recognized by the majority of the international community. The settlements are home to approximately 24,000 Israelis as well as a similar number of Druze, a predominantly Arab minority living in various countries in the region. These plans are part of a series of measures Israel has taken since the fall of the Assad regime, sparking outrage in the Middle East. Israel's recent military campaign in Syria resulted in the destruction of much of Syria's military infrastructure. However, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel does not seek conflict with Syria's new leaders but aims to prevent potential threats. An insider sees the plan to double the settlement population as a political act signaling Israel's commitment to the region rather than a military or strategic measure. It is not a major financial undertaking but a typical Netanyahu response to international criticism. Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leader of the Syrian rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, stated that his forces, despite Israeli aggressions, do not seek a new conflict and need to focus on rebuilding Syria, while he described Israel’s justifications for the airstrikes as weak pretexts.