“Arrow of Bashan”: Israel Uses Scriptures to Justify Its Invasion of Syria

Occupied Palestine (Quds News Network)- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again invoked biblical references to justify war crimes and violations of the international law. On Tuesday, Netanyahu revealed that the Israeli army’s latest assault across Syria would be called “Operation Arrow of Bashan.” The campaign, he claimed, aims to “eliminate threats from Syria”.

What Is Bashan?

The term “Bashan” originates from the Bible, referencing a fertile and historically significant region in present-day Syria. Known for its rich pastures and biblical associations, Bashan was a land allegedly conquered by the Israelites under the leadership of Moses. By using this name, Netanyahu ties Israel’s modern military assaults to ancient religious narratives, reinforcing a claim of divine entitlement to justify Israel’s colonial ambitions.

The name “Bashan” holds deep historical and biblical significance. It was a fertile region mentioned in the Old Testament, known for its agricultural abundance and strategic importance. The Israelites defeated Og, King of Bashan, and divided the land among their tribes. By naming the operation after Bashan, Netanyahu aligns modern military actions with these historical conquests, framing them as part of a divine plan.

The Israeli army’s latest operation targeted strategic military sites across Syria. Netanyahu claimed the strikes were designed to prevent advanced weaponry from falling into the hands of the rebels. However, the assault also reflects broader territorial ambitions.

Netanyahu reinforced Israel’s claim over the Golan Heights, stating, “The Golan Heights will be an inseparable part of the State of Israel forever.” Israeli forces have reportedly violated the 1974 Disengagement Agreement by invading the demilitarized zone between Syria and the occupied Golan Heights.

Biblical Rhetoric in Military Justifications

This is not the first time Netanyahu has relied on religious texts to rationalize military assaults. During the ongoing Gaza genocide, he has repeatedly quoted the Torah and Psalms, framing the genocide as a “battle between the children of light and the children of darkness.”

Netanyahu has previously invoked the Amalekites, a biblical enemy of the Israelites, to justify wiping out Palestinians in Gaza. He quoted Ecclesiastes, stating, “There is a time for peace and a time for war,” and promised Israeli forces they would fulfill prophecies from the Book of Isaiah.

Netanyahu’s use of religious rhetoric serves to mask Israel’s violations of international law and advance colonial ambitions in occupied territories.

Netanyahu’s repeated use of religious references to justify military operations has drawn sharp criticism. Many see these actions as an attempt to legitimize colonial ambitions under the guise of religious entitlement. The international community continues to express concern over Israel’s violations of international agreements and its impact on regional stability.