The IDF is preparing for developments on the Syrian border: Against the backdrop of the Syrian rebels’ takeover of Damascus and the fall of Assad’s regime, the IDF has deployed forces in the buffer zone inside Syria, and areas in northern Golan have now been declared closed military zones to allow the IDF to prepare for defensive—and even offensive—missions.
General Orders Area Closures
Major General Ori Gordin, commander of the Northern Command, issued an order declaring agricultural areas near Merom Golan-Ein Zivan and around Buq’ata and Khirbet Ein-Hura as closed military zones. According to the IDF Spokesperson, farmers’ access to specific areas will be restricted in accordance with military needs, lasting several hours and coordinated with military authorities. The announcement stressed that entry into these areas is “strictly prohibited.”
Deployment of Forces in the Buffer Zone
The announcement follows the IDF’s statement that, in light of developments in Syria and based on a situational assessment, the possibility of armed groups entering the buffer zone led to the deployment of forces in the area, as well as at other strategic points, “to ensure the security of the Golan Heights settlements and Israeli citizens.” The IDF emphasized that its forces are not intervening in events occurring in Syria but stated that measures will be taken to maintain the buffer zone and protect Israeli citizens and territory.
Strikes Against Weapons Labs and Hezbollah Vehicles
Meanwhile, Syrian reports indicated that chemical weapon manufacturing labs outside Damascus were attacked. These strikes, which began several days ago, came after Israel made it clear to rebel forces that irresponsible parties would not be allowed to acquire weapons that endanger the region. Additionally, artillery fire was directed at suspicious elements in the area to prevent their approach to the border.
During clashes in the Qusair area, armored convoys of Hezbollah attempting to retreat from the combat zone were attacked. Reports indicate that the Israeli Air Force struck the convoys to prevent the retreating forces from transferring equipment or regrouping in other areas. The strikes resulted in the destruction of some armored vehicles and damage to forces inside them.
Increased Preparedness on the Syrian Border
In recent days, the IDF completed a large-scale General Staff exercise called “Yuval Summit,” held in the northern Jordan Valley and southern Golan Heights. During the exercise, the Operations Directorate examined real-time outbreak scenarios, including the rapid mobilization of General Staff emergency forces and close cooperation between ground and air forces. The exercise aimed to improve the IDF’s rapid response capabilities and refine coordination between units to prepare for any scenario in the rapidly changing situation.
