Russia has issued a strong warning to Israel regarding the potential annexation of the Golan Heights, calling it categorically unacceptable. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov made the statement in an interview with the TASS Analytical Center, cautioning against taking advantage of the ongoing situation in Syria.
Ryabkov identified the United States as a key external player influencing events in Syria. He also noted that Israel appears to be a primary beneficiary of the recent developments. “I want to caution certain 'hotheads' in West Jerusalem against reveling in perceived opportunities,” Ryabkov stated. “Let me remind them that the annexation of the Golan Heights, widely discussed now, is utterly unacceptable. Israel must fully comply with the well-known 1974 agreement with Syria.”
On December 8, Israeli forces took control of the Syrian side of Mount Hermon in the Golan Heights without encountering resistance. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu subsequently declared that the 1974 disengagement agreement between Israel and Syria is no longer valid, citing the withdrawal of Syrian forces from the region following the recent power shift in Damascus.
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Photo: Federation Council
Based on TASS materials