Syria plays both sides: Inside Assad's careful dance in Middle East crisis

In last years Gaza conflict Bashar al-Assad chose an unexpected path - doing nothing. Its a well-known fact that Syria always used anti-Israel rhetoric but never took real action

The long-standing peace on Israel-Syria border tells its own story. Bassam Barabandi a former Syrian diplomat who left his post explains this situation:

The government paints itself as if it is fighting Israel but that has always been a lie; Bashar and his father before him – they have had a silent pact to keep the peace on the border with Israel

Since Oct-23 Syria kept low-profile; no big pro-Palestinian protests happened in Damascus (which is very unusual for the country)

Assadʼs main focus remains clear – keeping power in his hands. Even though he won civil war around 40% of Syrian territory still isnt under his control; thats why he needs to be extra-careful. One western source mentioned that Israel gave Syria clear warning: any hostile moves would lead to regime destruction

Here are key reasons why Syria stays neutral:

• Hopes for better relations with West
• Need for UAE investment help
• Old grudge with Hamas (they supported rebels in 11-12)
• Russian influence in south Syria
• Fear of Israeli response

The situation gets more complex when it comes to Iran. While Syria lets Tehran use its land for weapon transport to Hezbollah; it doesnt stop Israel from hitting Iranian targets on its territory. Russian military posts in south Syria (set up after some Iranian generals were killed in spring-24) help keep this balance

Even Hassan Nasrallah Hezbollahs leader showed understanding for Syrias position:

We cannot demand more from Syria and we must be realistic

Syria continues its balancing act: not joining conflict directly but allowing some weapon transfers through its territory. This shows how survival beats ideology in todays Middle-East politics