The troops expressed strong resolve to continue their deployment, with some noting they were already on a sixth rotation.
By The IDF Club
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu paid a visit to Israeli forces stationed in Syria on Wednesday, praising their ongoing mission and stressing the strategic value of their presence.
Standing with the troops, Netanyahu reaffirmed their role on the front line. “We attach immense importance to our capability here, both defensive and offensive,” he told them, emphasizing the need to protect “our Druze allies, and especially safeguarding the State of Israel and its northern border opposite the Golan Heights.” He added that their mission “can develop at any moment, but we are counting on you.”
Netanyahu began the visit at an observation point overlooking the sector, receiving an operational briefing before participating in a wider situational review with senior commanders, The Times of Israel reported. He spent time speaking with both conscripted and reserve soldiers, thanking them for their service and asking about day-to-day challenges in the field.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the troops expressed strong resolve to continue their deployment, with some noting they were already on a sixth rotation.
The prime minister was joined on the tour by Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and Shin Bet Director David Zini. Officials said the purpose of the visit was to personally acknowledge the soldiers’ central role in maintaining stability in the zone, which has been under IDF control since the collapse of the Syrian regime in December 2024.
Israel now maintains nine positions in southern Syria, most situated inside the UN-monitored buffer area, along with two additional outposts on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon.
The Syrian government continues to claim that Israel’s presence violates its sovereignty, while Israeli officials say negotiations over long-term security arrangements have “stalled,” leaving the current deployment in place for the foreseeable future.
