Israel begins building military bases in occupied Syrian territories: 35,000 troops deployed

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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have announced the deployment of new military bases on the Syrian border. It was stated that thousands of IDF soldiers have been stationed in the region following the withdrawal of UN peacekeeping forces. Military officials claimed they aim to prevent a threat similar to the October 7 attacks by Hamas.

Lieutenant Colonel Val, who is serving in the Golan Heights, shared details of the new defense system with reporters. Val stated that they are building new military bases supported by observation points protected by 6-meter-deep trenches dug into volcanic rock.

The Israeli government announced that it is taking preventive measures on the Syrian, Lebanese, and Gazan borders as part of a defense project called 'New East.' Reports in the foreign press included estimates that the project could cost 40 million dollars. Information was provided that military units consisting of three brigades are currently stationed in the 'buffer zone.'

According to a report by Bloomberg, it was stated that there are approximately 35,000 Syrians in the territory occupied by Israel, referred to as the buffer zone. It was noted that these Syrians are living under Israeli control. Val added that interaction with the local population is limited, but that humanitarian aid is continuing. No information was shared regarding the content or quantity of the aforementioned 'humanitarian aid.'

REACTION FROM ERDOĞAN TO ISRAEL

Israel's occupation of Syria has drawn reactions from other countries in the region. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated, ''We will not allow the division of Syria.'' UN officials, meanwhile, warned that Israel's actions threaten regional stability.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, speaking about relations with Turkey, said, 'We do not want conflict.' Defense experts emphasized that Israel's presence in Syria is significant both in terms of security and future diplomatic negotiations.

It was already known that the Golan Heights are of strategic importance to Israel. The US recognition of Israeli sovereignty over the Golan in 2019 sparked controversy in the international arena. Following the overthrow of the Baath regime, Israel crossed the Golan Heights and occupied a portion of the territory extending to Damascus.

News Source: 12punto