Israel Katz reaffirms IDF will continue holding Mount Hermon area beyond contested Israeli northern bordersIsrael’s defence minister has reaffirmed the country’s intention to occupy a swath of Syria territory beyond Israel’s contested northern borders for an “unlimited amount of time” during a visit to the strategic Mount Hermon.“The IDF is prepared to stay in Syria for an unlimited amount of time. We will hold the security area in Hermon and make sure that all the security zone in southern Syria is demilitarised and clear of weapons and threats,” Israel Katz said on a visit to the peak on Wednesday. Continue reading...
An Israeli minister declared Israel will occupy a portion of southern Syria indefinitely, ensuring the area is demilitarized. This follows Israel's increased military presence since the fall of Assad, with the IDF establishing posts in Syrian territory and conducting strikes to prevent threats and disrupt weapon smuggling. Israel claims this is necessary to protect its northern communities, though critics accuse Israel of exploiting the situation for a land grab, while Syrian president Ahmed al-Sharaa has promised a representative government and religious tolerance.
