Public sentiment in Syria is becoming increasingly volatile following a series of military actions between Jordan and Syria. The recent tensions erupted on Monday evening, marked by Jordanian airstrikes targeting southern Syrian regions, particularly Deraa and Suwayda, which Jordan claims were necessary to eliminate significant threats from the Islamic State (ISIL/ISIS). These operations have been framed by Jordan as a response to an attack on a Greek Orthodox church that tragically claimed nine lives and injured over thirty others in Karak, located approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Amman.
Jordanian authorities assert that their air force successfully eliminated over 20 ISIS fighters in regions they describe as “dens of terrorist organizations.” However, images demonstrating the loss of civilian lives, including a grandmother and her three grandchildren, have fueled public outrage within Syria. This growing discontent reflects a broader expectation among Syrians that their government should prioritize the safety and accountability of its citizens, especially in situations where lives are lost.
Navvar Saban, a security and military affairs researcher at the Arab Center for Contemporary Syrian Studies, has emphasized this critical expectation. He argues that public frustration could intensify if citizens perceive that the Syrian government is more invested in maintaining relations with Jordan than in safeguarding its own populace.
Despite the Jordanian government’s assertions of targeting terrorist threats, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected any claims of prior coordination regarding these military actions. They have labeled the strikes as treacherous, complicating the narrative surrounding the strike as governments seek to defend their political positions.
The historical context cannot be overlooked; since the onset of the Syrian conflict, the relationship between Amman and Damascus has been fraught with tension. The rise of cross-border drug smuggling activities and other security concerns have led to a series of Jordanian airstrikes on Syrian territory in recent years. Nonetheless, there has been a gradual improvement in relations, as both nations recognize the mutual benefits of collaboration amidst a shared goal of regional stability.
Recent communications suggest an intention to forge a strategic partnership that could bolster border security and mitigate the risks associated with smugglers and armed groups. In this precarious climate, it is crucial for both governments to address public concerns for accountability and justice, as they navigate this complex landscape of military actions, sovereignty, and international relations.
Going forward, it remains imperative for the Syrian government to provide clarity and transparency regarding these strikes, ensuring that families affected by these tragic events receive unequivocal answers. Accountability is essential for easing public discontent and reinforcing trust between the government and its citizens.
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