Israel has deployed ground forces beyond its demilitarized zone on the border with Syria, marking the first overt entry of Israeli military troops into Syrian territory since the 1973 October War. The move comes amid a successful push by rebel groups to oust President Bashar al-Assad from power.
Israeli forces have taken control of key locations, including the mountain summit of Mount Hermon and several other areas deemed essential for stabilizing control in the region. The deployment has raised concerns about regional instability and potential empowerment of militant groups that seek to carry out attacks against Israel.
The Israeli military had previously been covertly operating in Syria, targeting Hezbollah’s supply lines and striking sites and people. However, this latest move marks a significant shift in policy as Israel seeks to secure its border with Syria.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered troops to “take over the buffer zone” between Israel and Syria, citing concerns about hostile forces embedding themselves near the border. The deployment is seen as temporary, but it could also raise questions about Israel’s intentions.
Analysts have warned that the fall of al-Assad’s government could empower militant groups seeking to carry out attacks against Israel. Meanwhile, Israeli officials have assured that their forces will continue to operate in Syria “as long as necessary” to preserve the buffer zone and defend Israel and its civilians.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/08/world/middleeast/israel-demilitarized-zone-syria.html