The Mouse and the Lion: Syria - Between Active and Passive Resistance to Israel

Over the years Syria has maintained a policy of non-action and passiveness towards Israel, explained as the necessity to stand firm and not be dragged by Israel into direct confrontation. The Syrian regime has adopted two new terms – passive resistance (mumana’a) and active resistance (muqawama), which reflect the familiar policy of a firm stance against the enemy and abstention from proactive and retaliatory action. They signal Syria’s recognition of the balance of power with Israel, and its self-perception as the historic gatekeeper of the strong fortress of Arabism that stands firm against the storms that batter its gates without raising the white flag.