The Israeli government is allegedly exploring a proposal to divide Syria into administrative regions, or cantons,according to Israeli newspaper Israel Hayom. The plan, allegedly discussed in a recent closed-door meeting chaired by Defense Minister Israel Katz, aims to protect ethnic minorities such as the Druze and Kurds while addressing security concerns.
Energy Minister Eli Cohen reportedly suggested holding an international summit to promote the proposal, which Israeli officials argue would help stabilize Syria and allow Israel to withdraw its forces from captured areas without compromising security. However, they acknowledge that a plan associated with Israel would likely face strong resistance in Syria.
The discussions also addressed Turkey’s growing influence in Syria and the emergence of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a dominant force. Israel views Turkey’s support for Sunni Islamist groups as a potential threat greater than Iran’s past involvement through its support for Assad.
