Israeli Military Reinforces Presence in Golan Heights
On December 8, 2024, Israeli tanks penetrated the buffer zone in the occupied Golan Heights, a move characterized by Israeli officials as a necessary security measure. This escalation follows recent developments in Syria where armed opposition factions have gained control of areas near the Israeli border. Reports indicate that the Israeli army has bolstered its presence along the border, with local sources confirming that Israeli forces have entered Syrian territory and fired shells towards Syrian positions.
Israeli army spokesman Avichay Adraee announced on social media that the deployment of additional forces in the buffer zone was based on a security assessment, particularly in light of the potential for militants to enter the area. Adraee emphasized that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are committed to ensuring the safety of residents in the Golan Heights and the citizens of Israel, while maintaining a stance of non-interference in Syria's internal conflicts. He stated, "The IDF does not interfere in the internal events taking place inside Syria," reaffirming Israel's intent to act as necessary to protect its security interests.
This military action comes amid significant changes in the Syrian landscape, with opposition forces capturing new territories and increasing attacks near the Golan Heights. Historically, Israel occupied most of the Golan Heights during the 1967 Six-Day War and formally annexed the region in 1981, a move not recognized by international law. The U.S. recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights during President Donald Trump's administration, a decision that elicited varied responses globally.
