Israel to Stay in Syrian Buffer Zone, Defense Minister Says

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday that the military will maintain its presence in the buffer zone in southern Syria as long as threats persist, underscoring Israel's commitment to securing its border.

Speaking during a visit to the area, Katz said the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are engaged in daily operations to counter threats, including remnants of the old regime and elements of the new Syrian government. He stated that the military's presence sends a clear message to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, emphasizing that Israel is there to protect its communities.

"As long as there are threats, the IDF will remain here to ensure our security," Katz said. "That's what we did and that's what we intend to do in the future."

Katz also addressed Turkey's activities in Syria, saying Israel acted against a Turkish attempt to establish a foothold that risked its security interests. He said Israel made its position clear and would stand by it.

The remarks came after Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani met with a high-level Israeli delegation in Jordan over the weekend. The U.S.-mediated talks focused on restarting negotiations for a future security agreement, according to Syrian state media.

Israel recently struck the Abu Duhur air base in Idlib province, saying it aimed to prevent Turkey from establishing a presence there. Turkey has supported the new Syrian government's efforts to rebuild its armed forces after 14 years of civil war.

During the talks, Syrian officials asserted their right to develop an army and forge alliances with any country. They also called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the buffer zone, which Israel has occupied since December 2024, and reiterated that the Golan Heights, captured by Israel in 1967, is Syrian territory.

Israeli officials did not immediately comment on the meeting.