Özet:

This paper analyzes the debate in Israel about the Arab Uprisings in general and the Syrian crisis in particular. It argues that towards the Arab Uprisings in general, the Israeli position was stuck between the concerns for rising instability and new threats and as a democracy the need to support democratic movements and change. Regarding the developments in Syria, while initially the call for status quo, the continuation of the Asad regime, was dominant, in time the call for change supporting the opposition grew stronger. Yet, as concern over the scenarios as to what kind of a regime could be formed after the Asad rule grew in Israel, a call for change with caution was observed. The possible delivery or acquisition of Syrian weapons arsenal to Israel’s enemies as well as a takeover by radical Islamist groups lead to concern in Israel. Trying to avoid any confrontation in its home front, Israel has been cautious to involve in the crisis. The article also argues that Israel’s options and capability to affect the events are also limited in the Syrian crisis as this could lead to unintended consequences like a more unified anti-Israeli stance by the rather divided Islamist groups or de-legitimization of the secular opposition in case of an assistance by Israel

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