Israel to stay in Golan demilitarized zone indefinitely
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz has declared Israeli forces will not withdraw from the demilitarized zone in Syria’s Golan Heights.
He said the army would remain “indefinitely” to secure Israeli communities in the Israeli-occupied region.
Speaking to troops in the area, Katz stressed that Israel will not allow hostile forces to gain a foothold in southern Syria and will act against any threats.
He also noted that Israel plans to establish ties with what it calls “friendly populations,” especially the large Druze community.
On Tuesday, the Israeli army transferred military equipment into the demilitarized zone, which it occupied in December 2024.
The move violates the 1974 Disengagement Agreement with Syria.
Initially, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had called the occupation “temporary” but did not specify a withdrawal timeline.
The situation in Syria has drastically changed since December, when anti-regime forces took control of the capital Damascus, forcing President Bashar Assad to flee to Russia.
A new administration, led by Ahmed Al-Sharaa, has since taken power.
Israel’s expanded control over the Golan Heights comes amid regional uncertainty, raising tensions with Syria’s new leadership.
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