Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel will not permit Syria's new army or the insurgent group that ousted former President Bashar Assad to enter the area south of Damascus. This statement was made during a military graduation ceremony, raising concerns about Israel's continued presence in southern Syria.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will not allow forces from the new Syrian government or Hayat Tahrir al-Sham to enter the southern region. He demanded the complete demilitarization of southern Syria in specific provinces and vowed to protect the Druze community in the area.
Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli forces will remain stationed on Mt. Hermon in southern Syria and in a buffer zone to safeguard Israeli communities and counter any potential threats. Israel has established multiple posts in strategic locations to ensure defense capabilities.
Following the ousting of Assad, Israel took control of the U.N.-patrolled buffer zone on Syrian territory, despite calls from Syrian authorities and the U.N. to withdraw. The Israeli government faces pressure to protect its citizens living near the northern border.
Katz highlighted Israel's commitment to strengthening relationships with friendly populations in the region, particularly the Druze community. The Druze, a religious minority with a Syrian heritage, reside in southern Syria and Israel's Golan Heights.
Israeli forces are determined to prevent hostile groups from establishing a presence in the security zone stretching from southern Syria to Damascus. Any perceived threats will be met with decisive action, according to Katz.
