Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed on Sunday that Israel will not tolerate Syrian military presence in southern Syria, calling for the complete disarmament of the region. Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz echoed this, stating that the Israeli army would act against any perceived threats.
“Israel will demand the disarmament of the Syrian army in southern Syria and will not tolerate any threat to the Druze community,” Netanyahu said. He added that Israel seeks the “complete evacuation” of Syrian forces from Quneitra, Daraa, and Suwayda.
Katz emphasized that Israeli forces will remain in the area indefinitely. “Our eyes are open to the entire region today, especially towards Syria,” he said.
Expanding Military Presence
While Israel claims to be preventing security threats, recent reports indicate a deeper military entrenchment in Syria. Satellite images analyzed by The Washington Post reveal that Israel is building military bases inside Syria’s demilitarized zone, violating the 1974 ceasefire agreement.
According to the report, Israel has constructed at least seven bases across Syrian territory, extending from Mount Hermon in the north to Tel Kodna in the south. The images show permanent military infrastructure, including observation posts, barracks, and logistical support centers, suggesting a long-term Israeli presence.
Muhammad Maryoud, mayor of Jubata al-Khashab, confirmed Israeli construction activity, accusing the occupation forces of destroying farmland and nature reserves to make way for settlements. “We told them that we consider this an occupation,” he said.
Israeli Incursions & Airstrikes
Beyond its military expansion, Israel has escalated incursions into Syrian villages. On Friday, an Israeli patrol entered Ofania, north of Quneitra, conducting surveys on the local population and services. Activists fear this could pave the way for economic normalization efforts designed to alter the region’s demographics.
Civil activist Saeed al-Muhammad warned that Israel’s goal is to create economic dependency among Syrians, using employment incentives as a tool for control. “This is a trap for young people living below the poverty line,” he said.
Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes bombed the Syrian-Lebanese border in Homs countryside on Thursday, targeting civilian crossings. On Tuesday, Israeli forces shelled the Yarmouk Valley in Daraa with artillery, despite the absence of military targets in the area.
Divide & Conquer
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has called for Syria to be transformed into a federal state with autonomous regions, marking a new intervention in Syrian affairs. Speaking at the EU-Israel Partnership Council meeting in Brussels, Saar argued that stability in Syria could only be achieved through federalism. He urged EU ministers to strengthen ties with Israel, asserting that the country remains a pillar of regional stability.
Calls for International Action
Despite Security Council Resolution 497 affirming that the Golan Heights and surrounding areas are occupied Syrian territory, Israeli violations continue without consequences. Observers warn that Israel’s growing military footprint in Syria signals an attempt at permanent annexation, escalating tensions in the region.
With new bases, ongoing airstrikes, and increasing incursions, Israel’s actions defy international law, raising urgent calls for diplomatic and legal measures to halt the occupation.
