Mount Hermon secured: Israel Katz Calls for Syrian buffer zone defense

Defense Minister Israel Katz has directed the IDF to solidify its control over the Syrian buffer zone and establish a security area within it, Israeli media reported on Monday.

The instructions follow the IDF's strategic operation on Sunday afternoon, which saw the capture of the Syrian side of Mount Hermon. This move is aimed at expanding the demilitarized buffer zone along Israel’s border with Syria to enhance regional security.

Katz emphasized that the proposed security zone would be devoid of strategic weapons and terrorist infrastructure. His directives also included measures to block the reactivation of smuggling routes from Iran to Lebanon through Syria.

Additionally, Katz called for continued efforts to destroy weapons within Syria, including missile stockpiles and air defense systems.

* The Jerusalem Post contributed to this article.