The Developing Situation in Syria

IDF troops are on the ground defending Israel's border with Syria from possible threats.

Holding the Line, Protecting Our Borders

In the aftermath of a decade of civil war, Syria remains unstable and chaotic—a land where governance is a ghost and factions fight for control. For us in the IDF, this is not a distant tragedy; it’s a reality that edges against our border.

The goal of our defensive activities was made clear by the IDF Chief of Staff, LTC Herzi Halevi:

“The primary focus is observing Iran's movements and interests. Our secondary focus is on local factions who are taking control of the area, assessing their actions, behavior, and deterrence levels, and ensuring they do not mistakenly direct their actions toward us.”

Lets begin with some background:

Following the 1973 Yom Kippur War and as part of the Disengagement Agreement, an Area of Separation was established between Israel and Syria in the Golan Heights.

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) operates in this area to maintain security and prevent hostile activities. 

• The area is demarcated by two lines:

  • On the west, along Israel’s border with Syria, is the Alpha line.

  • Further east, at the end of the area of separation is the Bravo line.

Since December 7th, following incidents where armed groups were identified along Israel’s border conducting attacks, including on UNDOF personnel, we assisted UNDOF forces in repelling an attack on a UN post in the Hader area. An open line of communication is maintained between the IDF and UNDOF and our forces have been strategically deployed across the Area of Separation between Israel and Syria.

These deployments are temporary but aren’t just about geography; they’re about vigilance and rapid response. Every soldier stationed in the cold and mountainous terrain of the Hermon understands the stakes.

Their mission is not interference but defense: 

defense of our sovereignty, our borders, and the civilians who depend on us.

It is important for me to emphasize that the IDF is not interfering with the internal events in Syria. We are not a side in this conflict, and do not have an interest other than our border security and the safety of Israeli civilians.

Operation "New East"

This year, the 210th Division has been spearheading Operation “New East”, a mission that is as much about foresight as it is about fortification. The engineering barrier being built along our northern border is designed to delay and deter any attempt to infiltrate Israeli territory.

And it’s not just about physical barriers. The newly formed Mountain Regional Brigade is a testament to our evolving strategy. With advanced outposts equipped for extended operations—even in the biting cold of Hermon’s winter—our soldiers are prepared for any scenario.

Their dedication isn’t just in words. Every soldier operating in the harsh winter conditions has hot meals, proper clothing, and the equipment needed to endure and excel.

These aren’t just logistical details; they’re the backbone of ensuring readiness.

Striking a Blow Against Terror

On Tuesday, the IDF delivered a clear message within 48 hours of swift operations: Israel will not be a silent spectator to the buildup of terror. Our strikes have neutralized strategic weapons stockpiles across Syria, including Scud missiles, UAVs, and surface-to-surface missiles—tools of terror that could have been turned against civilians, both in Israel and in Syria.

In a coordinated effort, our Navy struck critical Syrian naval assets, destroying sea-to-sea missiles capable of targeting maritime vessels. Manned aircraft logged hundreds of hours over Syrian skies, executing over 350 precise aerial strikes. This operation wasn’t just about targets; it was about ensuring that sophisticated weapons will never fall into the hands of hostile actors.

Standing Ready, Always

Every hour, situational assessments refine our focus. Every day, soldiers and commanders stand as sentinels, ensuring threats—whether weapons smuggling, infiltration, or miscalculation—are met with swift action. 

We remain at peak readiness in both defense and offense, our commitment is steadfast: to preserve the Area of Separation, safeguard our borders, and ensure every Israeli civilian can live in safety and security, even amidst the chaos beyond.

Until next time, Lt Col Nadav Shoshani