Israel's Confession on Mount Hermon from Katz

golan heights, syria - Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz declares permanent occupation on Sheikh (Hermon) Mountain in Golan Heights.

Israeli Defense Minister's Statement on Golan Heights

Israel's Defense Minister Yisrael Katz asserted the permanent presence of Israeli forces on Sheikh (Hermon) Mountain in the Golan Heights, a territory occupied in violation of international law. Katz emphasized the protection of illegal Jewish settlers and residents in the region as the reason for the occupation, claiming it to be 'indefinite.' Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime in Syria, Israeli military officials conducted an evaluation meeting at Hermon Mountain. Katz also highlighted Israel's intention to establish contact with 'friendly people' in southern Syria, particularly focusing on the historical and close familial ties with the Druze community.

Israeli Aggression and Occupation in Syria

After intensification of conflicts in Syria on November 27 and the simultaneous collapse of the 61-year-old Ba'ath regime on December 8, Israel escalated its attacks on Syria. Targeting the remaining military infrastructure and capabilities of the regime, the Israeli army extended its occupation in the Golan Heights, penetrating up to 25 kilometers near the capital, Damascus. Since 1967, Israel has maintained control over the Golan Heights, a territory belonging to Syria. The Forces Disengagement Agreement signed between Israel and Syria in 1974 defined the boundaries of the buffer zone and the demilitarized area.