Israel expands military control into Syria– and the world is not impressed

Israel has launched a significant military expansion into Syrian territory following the collapse of the Assad regime, deploying elite Shaldag units and paratroopers in a move that has drawn sharp criticism from neighboring Arab states.

The IDF confirmed that its forces have secured strategic positions in Syria's buffer zone and captured Mount Hermon, marking a dramatic escalation of Israel's military presence beyond its borders.

Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the operation as a cabinet-approved strategic initiative to prevent extremist groups from establishing positions near Israel's northern border.

Egypt and Jordan immediately condemned the action. "Israel's buffer zone constitutes an additional occupation of Syrian territory and a blatant violation of sovereignty," Egypt's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, calling for UN Security Council intervention.

The military operation appears aimed at exploiting the power vacuum left by Assad's fall. Defense Minister Katz indicated that Israel is particularly focused on preventing Turkish influence in the region and the potential establishment of what he termed a "terrorist state" on Israel's northern frontier.

During a cabinet meeting, Katz also suggested potential collaboration with Syrian minority groups, specifically mentioning Druze and Kurdish populations, signaling a possible broader strategy for maintaining influence in the region.

Kikar HaShabbat contributed to this article.