Israeli Defense Minister Instructs IDF to Expand Security Efforts Beyond Syrian Border

In the wake of the Assad regime’s collapse, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to establish a secure zone beyond the buffer area with Syria. The zone will be free of “heavy strategic weapons and terror infrastructure,” ensuring the safety of Israel’s northern communities.

The decision follows the dramatic fall of the Assad regime as rebel forces seized Damascus, ending over five decades of the Assad family’s rule. IDF forces swiftly took control of the buffer zone established under the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement and are working to secure key positions along the Golan Heights.

“This area was controlled for nearly 50 years by a buffer zone,” said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a visit to the Syrian border on Sunday. “We will not allow any hostile force to establish itself on our borders.”

Defense Minister Katz emphasized the importance of preventing advanced weaponry from falling into the hands of hostile forces. Among the targets are surface-to-air missiles, long-range rockets, and other strategic arms previously controlled by the Assad regime and Iranian-backed militias.

The IDF has also launched strikes targeting weapons storage facilities, air defense systems, and production sites in Syria. Late Sunday night, Israeli Air Force operations reportedly destroyed a research facility in Damascus believed to be developing guided missiles for Iran.

Israeli special forces have taken control of the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, facing no resistance. Meanwhile, the IDF is accelerating construction of a fortified barrier along the Israeli-Syrian border, referred to as the “New East,” to safeguard against potential threats.

The collapse of the Assad regime introduces both opportunities and risks for Israel. Retired IDF Lt. Col. Anat Berko noted the potential for Syria to devolve into a “no man’s land,” similar to the rise of ISIS during the civil war. “We are not dealing here with the enemy of our enemy; they are both enemies,” Berko said, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and preparedness.

Israel is also working to establish contacts with Syria’s Druze community and other local populations to foster stability and neighborly relations where possible.

As the situation unfolds, Israel remains focused on defending its borders and preventing any resurgence of terror infrastructure. Stay updated on this developing story by sharing it or subscribing to our newsletter.