After the formation of Syria’s new government under President Ahmed Al Shara, a noticeable shift is being seen in the country’s foreign policy. Instead of seeking help from the United States or Saudi Arabia, Damascus has decided to strengthen its strategic partnership with Russia to navigate its current crisis.
Seeking Russian Military Support Near the Israeli Border
According to Russian newspaper Kommersant, Syrian Foreign Minister Asad al-Shabaani recently met the Syrian community in Moscow and revealed that Damascus has formally asked Russia to resume military police patrols near the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights. Syrian leaders believe Russian patrols in this buffer zone will help curb Israeli interference and maintain stability along the border, while also keeping communication channels with Israel open.
Why This Move Matters
Russian military police had been stationed in the Golan Heights buffer zone for years under international agreements to maintain peace. However, around nine months ago — after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government — Russia withdrew its forces. This withdrawal coincided with increased Israeli activity in border areas, raising security concerns for the new Syrian administration.
By requesting the return of Russian forces, Syria is signaling its intent to restore a protective mechanism against border tensions. This move is part of a broader strategy to secure long-term Russian involvement in strategic locations like Tartus and Latakia, ensuring Moscow remains a reliable security partner.
A Message to Israel and the Region
Analysts say this request also sends a clear message to Israel: the new Syrian government opposes any continued Israeli presence on Syrian soil. At the same time, it is open to working closely with Russia, seeing Moscow as a stabilizing force and a counterbalance in the region’s power dynamics.
Why Not the US or Saudi Arabia?
Syria’s pivot away from Washington and Riyadh can be explained by years of strained political relations, limited direct support, and the perception that both have strategic priorities conflicting with Damascus’s security needs. In contrast, Russia has been a longstanding military ally with a proven role in Syria’s conflict resolution efforts.
In short: Syria’s outreach to Putin is a strategic, security-oriented decision aimed at restoring border stability, keeping regional diplomacy in check, and ensuring a dependable ally remains active in the country’s defense — even if that means sidelining US or Saudi support.
