Syria’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Ibrahim Olabi, said Israeli violations in southern Syria undermine efforts to restore security and stability. Speaking at a UN Security Council session on the Middle East, Olabi described the past two months as a period of serious regional tension, emphasizing Syria seeks to play a constructive role in preventing further escalation.
He noted members of the Security Council have, on several occasions, expressed appreciation for Syria’s approach. Despite these efforts, he said, no final settlement to the broader conflict has been reached. Olabi pointed to mediation efforts by Pakistan, Gulf states, Egypt and Turkey, as well as initiatives linked to US President Donald Trump, as steps aimed at maintaining calm.
Syria also welcomed the extension of the ceasefire in Lebanon, reaffirming support for Lebanese sovereignty and territorial integrity. Olabi emphasized the importance of state control over weapons and backed the Lebanese government’s rejection of military actions conducted outside official institutions.
He added Syria has called on Iraq and Lebanon to strengthen border deployments to prevent the spread of armed groups, while stressing the need to protect UN peacekeeping forces. He offered condolences to Indonesia and France for losses among their personnel serving with the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Claims of Violations in Southern Syria
Olabi said Syrian authorities remain committed to security efforts but argued that Israeli military activities continue to disrupt those efforts. He cited the presence of Israeli forces in areas within and beyond the separation zone, including Mount Hermon, as violations of international agreements, including the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.
According to Olabi, Israeli forces invade villages and agricultural areas, uproot trees and interfered with water resources in ways that affect local communities. He also raised concerns about the treatment of abducted Syrians, alleging cases of detention without due process, enforced disappearances and kidnappings during nighttime raids. Some detainees, he said, are minors.
He referred to a report by the UN Human Rights Commission calling for independent investigations into such allegations. Olabi also described incidents involving Israeli settlers in the village of Ain al-Tina in Quneitra, where he said individuals climbed onto rooftops and chanted slogans supporting settlement activity.
Warning Against Escalation
Olabi warned such actions risk provoking local populations and increasing tensions. He said Syria has informed the Security Council of what it views as attempts to trigger reactions that could be used to justify further military measures. He added that Syria has participated in security discussions with Israel under US mediation, describing those talks as conducted in good faith despite ongoing concerns.
He concluded that lasting stability depends on addressing the broader issue of illegal occupation and security should focus on the safety of people, rather than military presence, reiterating Syria’s position on disputed territories in the region.
