Why is Israel expanding its presence in Syria?

Israel’s military presence in southern Syria has expanded significantly over the past two years, drawing attention to its increasing involvement in the region despite ongoing tensions with Damascus. According to reports from local residents and humanitarian groups, Israeli forces have intensified operations in the Quneitra district, a historically sensitive area near the Golan Heights, which Israel has controlled since 1967. One such case involves a 19-year-old Syrian farmer named Saddam, whose father, Ahmad Hassan al-Din, recounted how his son was taken by Israeli soldiers in April 2024 while working on farmland. Al-Din described the incident in detail, stating that Saddam was apprehended after returning from feeding livestock, despite having a valid UN permit to operate in the area. Video footage of the arrest, shared with Deutsche Welle, shows Israeli soldiers leading Saddam away in handcuffs, an act corroborated by independent verification from France24 and human rights organizations. The situation escalated further following the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2024. In response, Israeli officials declared the 1974 disengagement agreement, established to prevent direct confrontation between Israeli and Syrian forces, void. This move allowed Israel to assume de facto control over the UN-patrolled buffer zone, known as the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) area. Initially framed as a temporary measure to safeguard against potential cross-border threats, the Israeli military’s presence has since evolved into a more sustained operation. By November 2025, UNDOF confirmed that Israel had constructed 10 new bases within the region, with six located inside the buffer zone and four extending into Syrian territory. These developments have led to increased friction with local communities. Syrian residents report frequent Israeli incursions into both Daraa and Quneitra provinces, often involving armored patrols and the establishment of temporary checkpoints. These checkpoints result in the arbitrary detention of civilians, including children, and the confiscation of personal devices. In some instances, biometric data is collected, raising concerns about privacy violations and potential abuse of power. Local consultancy firm Karam Shaar Advisory documented these activities in January 2025, highlighting the systematic nature of the Israeli military’s actions. The impact on civilian life has been severe. Residents describe the destruction of homes, businesses, and agricultural infrastructure. Mousa Khalil, a 65-year-old resident of Hamidiyah village, recounted the complete demolition of his two-story residence by Israeli troops. With a family of eight to support, Khalil faces immense financial strain, struggling to secure employment and save enough to rebuild his home. Such incidents are not isolated; Quneitra authorities have claimed that Israeli forces have seized over 200 sheep, damaged water wells, and razed horticultural zones, severely disrupting livelihoods. The Israeli military has yet to provide detailed information regarding specific charges against individuals detained in the region. When asked about Saddam’s alleged offenses, an Israeli spokesperson issued a generic statement asserting that the force detains individuals suspected of posing a threat. However, this explanation lacks specificity, leaving families like Saddam’s without clear answers or recourse. Meanwhile, the absence of transparency has fueled distrust among local populations, who view the Israeli military’s actions as an extension of occupation rather than a temporary security measure. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications for regional stability remain uncertain. While Israel maintains that its operations are necessary for national security, the escalating militarization of the area raises questions about the long-term consequences for Syria and the broader Middle East. With the number of incursions reportedly increasing, the international community is being urged to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. For now, the focus remains on the immediate effects of Israel’s growing military footprint, as local residents continue to bear the brunt of its policies.