The current stalemate in the peace process and relations with between the Syrians and Israelis is complicated by the continuing problems along the Lebanese-Israeli border where Hizbullah has engaged in border skirmishes with Israeli troops. These skirmishes include the launching of Katuysha rockets from the Israeli patrolled security zone into Israel. These skirmishes have left several dead on both sides, but to the Israelis, this is a losing proposition since most Israelis are tired of having to bury their dead because of the almost constant problems in the North.
The problems with the border are founded partially in the
relationship between Syria and Israel. Other players in an eventual solution includes Hizbullah and Hamas since they each have many followers in the region but this complicates negotiations since they are both terrorist organizations. This thorough examination, put together by Dr. Raymond Tanter and his class at the University of Michigan, sets out some of the basic problems and possible solutions for the current impasse on the border. It includes legal issues and policy considerations that need to be included in the solution.
Most Israelis would definitely breathe a sigh of relief should their northern border become secured against further attacks. This will only be accomplished when Israel comes to an agreement with Syria, Lebanon and Hizbullah to stop the cycle of violence from continuing. While it is arguable that it is in Syria's best interests that it would also want to normalize its relations with Israel and therefore remake its image in the West, President Assad of Syria has a very strong dislike of Israel and has maintained a very hard line position for peace. He apparently will accept nothing less than a total Israeli withdrawal from the Golan Heights and the Security Zone in Lebanon. While Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon would be quite acceptable to Israel if peace could be achieved along that border, any withdrawal from the Golan Heights would have to be accompanied by a demilitarization of the region and probably include international inspectors to maintain that status.
