Following a series of air strikes and ground maneuvers, Israel has solidified control over Mount Hermon and several other strategic points in the Syrian Golan following the rapid collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. These swift maneuvers highlight Israel’s concerns about the potential for a dangerous power vacuum in the region.
Deepening Control Amidst a Fragile Region
In response to the shifting regional landscape, Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz issued orders to the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) to further bolster security along the border. This includes solidifying control over demarcated separation zones, maintaining active field patrols, and working toward the establishment of a secured zone free from heavy weaponry and military infrastructure in southern Syria, extending beyond the established buffer zone.
“This move is crucial to prevent other actors from exploiting the current security vacuum,” explained an informed source, suggesting a potential for expanding these secured areas depending on future developments.
A key aspect of this strategy includes engaging with local communities, including the Druze population residing in the Syrian areas affected by these developments.
The Israeli government and military leadership have not ruled out the possibility of further expanding Israeli control within the Syrian Golan. This move is seen as a crucial step in preventing potential infiltration of armed opposition forces into the region.
A Skies Secured, A Screen Blocked
Simultaneously, the Israeli Air Force conducted intensive air strikes targeting a Syrian military base suspected of housing advanced weaponry. “The presence of these weapons raised concerns that they could fall into the wrong hands, potentially posing a direct threat to Israeli security,” said a military official. The raids resulted in the complete destruction of the base, including its surrounding defense systems.
Numerous other targeted strikes were carried out against Syrian sites, effectively neutralizing advanced surface-to-air missile systems, as well as facilities involved in the production and storage of ballistic missiles. According to military sources, these operations were essential to ensuring the unimpeded freedom of Israeli air movement within Syrian airspace.
Israeli Army Radio reported that over 100 targets were struck on Sunday “most of which were weapons depots.”
Repeating Cartography: A New Frontier
The Israeli army confirmed its seizure of Mount Hermon on the Syrian side of the border, emphasizing that this strategic move aimed to strengthen border defenses.
“This step came as a result of Syrian regime forces withdrawing from their positions after the collapse [of the regime] and leaving their camps without resistance,” a statement explained. The Israeli military leadership confirmed that coordination with the United States and Russia contributed to the successful implementation of these operations.
Sources within the Israeli army pointed out a waning influence of Iran in the region, despite interventions from Hezbollah, noting the decline of the Iran-Syria axis. However, they highlighted the emergence of extremist Islamic forces and increased Turkish and Kurdish involvement as new sources of concern for Israel’s security.
What are the potential long-term implications of Israel’s actions in the Syrian Golan for regional stability?
## Interview: Israel’s Expanding Control in the Golan Heights
**Interviewer:** Joining us now is Professor Avi Cohen, a Middle East expert from the University of Tel Aviv. Professor Cohen, recent reports indicate that Israel has taken control of strategic points in the Syrian Golan, including Mount Hermon. Can you shed light on what prompted this move?
**Professor Cohen:** This is a complex situation stemming from the rapid disintegration of the Assad regime in Syria. Israel, understandably concerned about the potential for chaos and the emergence of hostile forces in the power vacuum, has taken preemptive measures to secure its borders. This includes solidifying control over key strategic locations like Mount Hermon, which offers a significant vantage point.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned preemptive measures. Does this suggest Israel is actively expanding its territory in the Syrian Golan?
**Professor Cohen:** It’s not entirely clear at this stage. While Israel has strengthened its military presence and controls these specific points, the full extent of its intentions remains to be seen. Some analysts believe this might be a temporary measure aimed at preventing the influx of hostile actors until a more stable situation emerges in Syria. Others suggest it could signal a long-term strategy of extending Israeli control beyond the Golan Heights, particularly given the potential for new threats arising from the Syrian civil war.
**Interviewer:** The reports also mention engaging with local communities like the Druze population. What role do you see local communities playing in this evolving situation?
**Professor Cohen:** Local communities, particularly the Druze minority who maintain historical ties with both Syria and Israel, are crucial in shaping the outcome of this situation. Gaining their trust and cooperation is vital for Israel to maintain a stable presence in the area. Their alignment can significantly contribute to regional stability and potentially mitigate tensions with other groups.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for providing your insights. It seems the situation in the Syrian Golan is still unfolding and will require close observation in the coming weeks and months.
**Professor Cohen:** Indeed. This is a highly dynamic situation with far-reaching implications for the entire region.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Professor Cohen, for your time.
