Quneitra: The recent Israeli attack on a Syrian airbase is emblematic of a series of Israeli military actions in Syria, prompting growing concerns over Israeli presence in the region. In southern Syria, locals report detainment by Israeli troops, destruction of infrastructure, and establishment of military bases.
According to Deutsche Welle, Ahmad Hassan al-Din, a Syrian resident, recounted the disappearance of his son, Saddam, who was taken by Israeli soldiers in April 2024 from farmland near the Golan Heights-an area under Israeli occupation since 1967. Al-Din documented the incident, capturing Israeli soldiers escorting his son in handcuffs, a video later verified by France24 and human rights organizations. Despite possessing a valid UN permit for the land, Saddam was detained for alleged trespassing on Israeli territory. Humanitarian groups believe Saddam is currently imprisoned in Israel.
Israel's military activities have intensified following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. Israeli officials declared the 1974 disengagement agreement void, citing security threats. Since then, UNDOF has reported the construction of 10 Israeli military bases in the area, with frequent incursions into Syrian provinces like Daraa and Quneitra. These operations often involve setting up checkpoints, conducting searches, and collecting biometric data from Syrian civilians. Additionally, Israeli forces have been accused of raiding homes, confiscating livestock, and destroying property.
The Sijil Center has documented 1,632 Israeli incursions since the start of 2025, with around 200 Syrians detained, although most were released after interrogation. Experts argue that such actions breach international law, with organizations like Amnesty International describing them as potential war crimes.
The motivations behind Israel's actions are multifaceted. Israeli security concerns, driven by fears of cross-border attacks and assumptions about the new Syrian government's hostility, play a significant role. Strategic interests, such as control over water resources and surveillance advantages from Mount Hermon, are also factors. Diplomatic dialogues aimed at reactivating the 1974 agreement have so far failed, leading to increased military incursions.
The escalation raises questions about future developments, with experts like H.A. Hellyer suggesting that Israeli security zones often evolve into permanent occupations. Despite local grievances, the Syrian government's diplomatic efforts reflect the limitations imposed by Israel's military dominance. Hellyer describes this as "Israeli paramountcy," where powerful states impose their will by force, sidelining international laws and consensus.