IDF stresses that deployment to Syria-Israel buffer zone is temporary, defensive

The IDF stresses that its deployment to the buffer zone between Israel and Syria is a defensive and temporary measure amid the chaos in the country following the fall of the Assad regime.

According to the military, troops are deployed to specific strategic positions in the buffer zone to prevent unidentified gunmen from being in the area.

Over the weekend, gunmen were identified in the buffer zone, including during an incident where a UN post came under attack.

The IDF fears that following the fall of the regime, and with an abundance of weapons in the area, hostile forces could attack Israel.

The military says the move to capture the buffer zone is purely to ensure that attacks aren’t carried out against Israel, and it will remain there until the situation is clear.