Israeli Defense Force to Maintain Presence in Syrian Buffer Zone Indefinitely

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced today that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will maintain an indefinite presence in the security buffer zone on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, following Israel’s recent military operations in the region.

Speaking during a visit to IDF troops stationed at Mount Hermon’s summit, Katz stated that the continued deployment is essential to safeguard Israeli communities in the Golan Heights and northern Israel.

“The IDF will remain at the summit of the Hermon and in the security zone indefinitely to ensure the security of the communities of the Golan Heights and all residents of Israel,” Katz declared. His remarks appear to confirm Israel’s intent to retain control over the buffer zone established last month after the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

The defense minister emphasized that Israel would not allow hostile elements to gain a foothold in southern Syria and pledged military action against any emerging threats.

“We will not allow hostile forces to establish themselves in the security zone in southern Syria… We will act against any threat,” he warned.

Katz also revealed that Israel intends to establish contact with “friendly populations” in the area, particularly highlighting the Druze community. He noted the historic and familial ties between the Druze population in southern Syria and their brethren in Israel.

During his visit, Katz conducted a strategic assessment with senior IDF officers and met with soldiers stationed at the Hermon summit, according to the Israeli Defense Ministry.

Israel has previously described its seizure of the buffer zone as a temporary security measure aimed at preventing hostile groups from exploiting Syria’s instability and posing a threat to Israeli territory. However, Katz’s statement today suggests that Israel may maintain its hold on the region for the foreseeable future.