Israel expands military presence within Syrian border zones

Following the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime in late 2024, Israel has expanded its military presence within Syrian territory. Moving beyond temporary security measures, the Israeli military has established at least ten new bases in the provinces of Daraa and Quneitra, effectively transforming the former demilitarized zone into a permanent military infrastructure.

Local residents report frequent raids, biometric profiling, and the confiscation of vital resources such as water and agricultural land. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have raised concerns regarding potential violations of international law. The Israeli military maintains that these actions are necessary to prevent terrorist activities and secure the border.

The strategic shift follows the perceived invalidation of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. Israel’s objectives appear to include securing the Hermon summit, controlling regional water resources, and maintaining a buffer against the new government in Damascus, which Israel views with distrust. The situation has led to significant humanitarian concerns, exemplified by the detention of Syrian civilians, such as 19-year-old Saddam, who was reportedly taken by soldiers while working on his family's land.