Syria, Israel: The Golan Heights' Role in al Assad's Future

Outgoing Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Moshe Yaalon said May 31 Israel would be able to defend itself even after its eventual withdrawal from the Golan Heights. Although Yaalon's comments are by no means an official declaration that Israel would engage Syria over the disputed Golan Heights, he has revealed an internal debate within the Israeli government that is leaning toward keeping the Syrian regime intact. Furthermore, the timing and significance of Yaalon's remarks are a lifesaver for Syrian President Bashar al Assad.