Israeli Settlers Eye Expansion into Syria and Lebanon
Recent reports from the Israeli magazine "972+" indicate that settler groups are actively seeking to expand their presence into border areas of Syria and Lebanon following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The article, authored by Eli Perry, highlights that Israeli forces began encroaching into Syrian territory shortly after the regime's collapse, particularly occupying strategic locations such as Mount Hermon and the buffer zone adjacent to the Golan Heights.
The report reveals that the newly formed Ori Tzafon movement, which advocates for settlement in southern Lebanon, has been vocal about its intentions. Members of the movement have expressed a desire to “invade and destroy” as much territory as possible, showcasing a troubling shift in rhetoric and ambition. Discussions within their WhatsApp groups have included plans to investigate legal avenues for Israelis to invest in real estate and acquire land in Syria, with members actively sharing maps to identify potential settlement sites.
Another prominent group, the Nahala movement, led by Daniela Weiss, has similarly expressed ambitions to establish settlements not only in Gaza but also in Lebanon and across the Golan Heights. Weiss's statements reflect a broader ideology that equates Jewish settlement with regional stability and security, suggesting that the movement's aspirations are grounded in a biblical vision of territorial claims.
The Nahala movement has reportedly identified specific locations for new Jewish settlements in Gaza, with over 700 families indicating their willingness to relocate when the opportunity arises. Recently, the Ori Tsafon group attempted to claim land in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces are stationed post-ceasefire. This initiative included a symbolic act of planting cedar trees in memory of an Israeli soldier killed in Lebanon, although the group was subsequently returned to the Israeli border by military forces.
The article underscores a significant shift in the discourse surrounding settlements, particularly in southern Lebanon, which had not been a focal point prior to the formation of Ori Tzafon. The movement's connections with members of the Knesset suggest that these discussions may gain traction in Israeli political circles, paralleling ongoing conversations about settlement in Gaza.
Implications of Settlement Expansion
The ambitions of these settler groups raise critical questions about the future of Israeli-Syrian relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in the region. As these movements gain momentum, they could exacerbate tensions not only with Syria but also with Lebanon, where historical animosities persist. The rhetoric employed by leaders within these movements, including Hagai Ben Artzi, son-in-law of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflects a deeply rooted belief in territorial claims based on religious texts, which may further complicate peace efforts.
Amos Azaria, founder of Ori Tzafon, has publicly called for the Israeli government to seize as much Syrian territory as possible, equating the Syrian rebels with Hamas and framing the situation as a necessity for Israeli security. This perspective highlights a growing sentiment among certain factions within Israel that views territorial expansion as a defensive measure against perceived threats from neighboring states.
The Israeli military has not commented on the recent incursions into Syrian territory by settlers, leaving the implications of these actions unclear. However, the increasing visibility and organization of settler movements suggest a potential shift in Israeli policy towards more aggressive territorial claims in the wake of regional instability.
