Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Israeli-occupied Syrian Golan Heights on Wednesday, accompanied by several ministers and security officials. The group included Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, Army Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, Shin Bet Director David Zini, and National Security Council Director.
During the visit, Netanyahu and Katz received a security briefing on the region’s developments. Netanyahu emphasized the importance of Israeli forces’ presence in the buffer zone within Syrian territory, stating it’s crucial for ensuring the security and stability of the Israeli entity. He also highlighted the significance of the soldiers’ role in maintaining defensive and offensive readiness amid ongoing tensions on the Syrian front.
The Israeli army maintains control over Mount Hermon and eight other sites within the Syrian Golan, all located just a few kilometers from the 1974 ceasefire line. This presence has been a point of contention, with Netanyahu previously disregarding the agreement.
The visit comes amid growing concerns within Israel’s military and security establishments about the US approach towards Syria, particularly following Syrian leader Ahmad Al-Sharaa’s meeting with US President Donald Trump. Israeli officials are worried about potential pressure resulting from this development.
On the ground, Israeli occupation forces have escalated their violations in Quneitra, southern Syria, over the past few weeks. This includes advancing into agricultural lands, destroying large areas of forests, conducting arrests, and setting up checkpoints. According to the Syrian News Agency (SANA), Israeli forces infiltrated several villages in Quneitra, including Um al-‘Azam and Ruhayyina, with military vehicles.
The Syrian government has condemned these ongoing Israeli violations, calling on the international community to take a firm stance against them.
Source: Al-Manar English Website
