Israel expands military presence in Mount Hermon buffer zone amid Syria tensions

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has ordered the Israeli military to remain in the occupied buffer zone near Mount Hermon throughout the winter, following an escalation of tensions in Syria.

This decision comes amid increased Israeli military activity, including attacks on Syrian infrastructure and the expansion of Israel’s presence in the Golan Heights.

Key points

• Winter stay in the buffer zone: The Israeli military will continue to occupy the Mount Hermon buffer zone through the winter months.
• Strategic importance: Katz emphasized that controlling Mount Hermon is vital for Israel’s security due to the ongoing situation in Syria.
• Military escalation: Israel’s military presence in the Golan Heights and the surrounding buffer zone has been expanded.
• Longstanding occupation: Israel has occupied the Golan Heights since 1967, with the region remaining a contentious area in Israel-Syria relations.

Why it matters?

This decision reflects Israel’s heightened security concerns in the face of ongoing instability in Syria. With the collapse of Syria’s Baath regime, Israel’s military has reinforced its presence in the Golan Heights and surrounding areas, positioning itself strategically in a volatile region.

Zoom in: Military actions

Since late November 2023, Israel has escalated its operations in Syria, targeting military infrastructure and expanding its presence in the Golan Heights. Israeli forces have moved deeper into the buffer zone, pushing closer to Damascus, just 25 kilometers away from the Syrian capital.

Bigger picture: Israel-Syria tensions

The Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights remains a significant point of contention between Israel and Syria. The 1974 Disengagement Agreement established the boundaries for the buffer zone, but the ongoing military operations have altered the situation, highlighting the continued tension between the two nations.