Abdelrahman
Israel’s Stance on Southern Syria: A Commitment to Security
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a firm declaration, stating that Israel will not permit either the new Syrian army or the insurgent group responsible for the ousting of former President Bashar Assad to enter the region south of Damascus. This assertion emphasizes Israel’s intention to maintain its military presence in certain areas of southern Syria for the foreseeable future.
Speaking at a military graduation ceremony on Sunday, Netanyahu expressed renewed concerns regarding the Israeli influence and presence in southern Syria, particularly as new leadership in Damascus strives to regain control following years of civil conflict. He specifically mentioned the extremist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the emerging Syrian authorities, underscoring that they will not be allowed to move into the southern region.
Netanyahu remarked, “We will not permit the forces of HTS or the new Syrian army to set foot south of Damascus.” He highlighted the need for complete demilitarization in the provinces of Quneitra, Daraa, and Suwayda, ensuring that the forces aligned with the new regime do not pose any threat to the Druze community residing in southern Syria.
As of now, there has been no response from Syrian officials regarding these statements. Defense Minister Israel Katz supported Netanyahu’s stance, asserting that Israeli forces will continue to secure the peak of Mt. Hermon and remain within a designated buffer zone indefinitely, with the aim of safeguarding Israeli communities and preventing potential dangers.
Katz disclosed that Israeli troops have established two outposts on Mt. Hermon and an additional seven in the buffer zone to effectively address any challenges that may arise.
Following Assad’s fall in December, Israel took control of the U.N.-monitored buffer zone established under a 1974 ceasefire agreement. Both Syria’s new leadership and U.N. representatives have called for Israel to withdraw from this area. In the meantime, Netanyahu’s administration faces pressure to ensure the safety of Israelis living in border regions to the north.
Katz also stressed Israel’s intention to bolster relationships with friendly populations in the vicinity, particularly the Druze, a religious minority that inhabits both southern Syria and Israel’s Golan Heights. This community is characterized by its complex identity, as they maintain historical ties to Syria while living under Israeli governance.
“We will not accept any threats directed at the Druze community in southern Syria,” Netanyahu affirmed. Furthermore, Katz reiterated that Israeli forces are committed to preventing hostile groups from establishing a presence within the security zone extending from Damascus to the surrounding areas. “We will take action against any perceived threat,” he stated.
