Syria-Israel border tensions and UNDOF monitoring

Syrian authorities and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) have initiated efforts to improve coordination to monitor Israeli violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement in the Quneitra region. UN Deputy Special Envoy Claudio Cordone warned that Israeli military operations, such as shelling, abductions, and searches, are threatening regional stability and Syrian territorial integrity. Syria has since shifted toward a diplomatic and legal strategy to address these incursions. Following a UN Security Council affirmation of the 1974 agreement, Syrian representative Ibrahim Albi stated the country is leveraging international consensus to mobilize pressure against Israel. Syria reported that 45 countries expressed support following recent Israeli border movements, and the government intends to use these international stances to demand respect for its sovereignty. During a recent UN Security Council session, Claudio Cordoni emphasized that economic stability is essential for Syria’s transition, noting that the lifting of sanctions has opened opportunities for investment. Financial support includes 620 million euros from the European Union and 175 million USD from the World Bank for agricultural projects. The UN is also discussing a reconstruction conference with the Syrian government. International representatives reiterated calls for an end to Israeli military violations in southern Syria, specifically citing shelling and the establishment of checkpoints. On the humanitarian front, UN Assistant Secretary-General Mohammed Yahya reported that while approximately 1.82 million refugees and 2.04 million internally displaced persons have returned to their areas, the emergency humanitarian response is only 32% funded. He further noted that since December 2024, explosive incidents have caused 2,576 casualties, including roughly 900 deaths. At the UN General Assembly, Syria’s Permanent Representative, Ibrahim Olabi, called for international protection against Israeli airstrikes, stating these actions undermine national security.