Syria’s transitional leadership is open to restoring Russian military police patrols in the country’s southern provinces, a move aimed at limiting Israeli military operations in the area, according to Russian newspaper Kommersant. The proposal emerged following an August 1 meeting in Moscow between Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani and members of the Syrian diaspora.

Strategic Interests for Moscow

The Kremlin, which supported Bashar al-Assad’s government until its collapse in 2024, is now negotiating with the new authorities to maintain a reduced but strategic military presence. This includes two bases, a Mediterranean port, and the Hmeimim air base — assets critical for Russia’s influence in the Middle East.

Following Assad’s ouster, Israel expanded its military activities in Syria, striking arms-storage facilities, extending occupied territory in the southwest, and deploying forces to protect the Druze community during violent clashes. Russian patrols, if resumed, could act as both a deterrent to Israeli operations and a stabilizing force in the volatile south.

Russia as a Mediator

Kommersant reported that Russia could serve as a key intermediary in regulating relations between Damascus and Tel Aviv. Earlier this month, President Vladimir Putin met with Al-Shaibani, pledging Russian support for Syria’s stability and voicing “categorical rejection” of Israeli intervention, according to Syria’s state-run Sana news agency.

The move underscores Moscow’s efforts to remain a central player in Syria’s post-war landscape, balancing its military foothold with diplomatic influence.