This was critically important considering the events in Syria, Katz said. Much of Syria and Lebanon can be seen from this strategic position.
Mount Hermon “is under Israeli control again after 51 years”, Katz said on platform “X”, describing the event as “an exciting historical moment”.
after the victory of the Islamist rebels in Syria, Israeli soldiers entered the buffer zone of the Golan Heights, also on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the troop movement as a temporary measure “until a suitable solution is found”.
Since the fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the Israeli Air Force has taken advantage of the power vacuum by bombing military targets inside the country.
Israeli airstrikes in Syria resumed early Friday morning,striking weapons depots and research centers in rural areas of Himsa and Hama provinces,the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported.
Over the weekend, Israeli ground forces moved deeper into Syrian territory outside the demilitarized zone, the New York Times reported on Sunday, citing Israeli officials.
Israel’s armed forces have taken control of the top of Mount Hermon on the Syrian side of the border, as well as several other locations deemed essential to stabilize control in the area, the newspaper said.
Most of the Golan Heights was occupied by Israel in 1967. In 1981, Israel annexed this territory, but it is not recognized by the majority of the international community. More than 25,000 Jewish settlers live in the Golan Heights.
In 1974, a buffer zone was created that separated the territories controlled by israel and Syria, and as then UN peacekeeping forces have been stationed there. Over the weekend, when Bashar al-Assad’s regime fell in Damascus, Israeli troops entered the buffer zone on Syrian territory.
– How do Israel’s military strategies in the golan Heights impact regional stability?
Interview: The Strategic Implications of Israel’s Control Over Mount Hermon
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today. We have with us Dr. Samuel Katz, a geopolitical analyst with extensive experience in Middle Eastern politics. Dr. Katz, Israel has regained control over Mount Hermon after 51 years. Can you explain why this is such a significant event?
Dr.Samuel Katz: Thank you for having me. Mount Hermon is not just a geographical landmark; it is a strategic position that overlooks much of Syria and Lebanon. Its control is vital for Israel’s national security, especially given the volatile situation in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
Editor: You mentioned the events in Syria. how has the vacuum created by Assad’s fall affected Israel’s military strategy?
Dr. Katz: With the Assad regime weakened, various factions, including Islamist rebels, have exploited the situation, creating a power vacuum in regions close to Israel. The israeli Defense Forces have adapted by implementing airstrikes on military targets in syria to prevent these groups from gaining control of weapons and resources that could threaten israel. The recent military movement into the buffer zone, following the fall of Assad’s government, signifies Israel’s proactive approach to securing its borders.
Editor: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the troop movement as temporary. What future scenarios do you foresee, and how should the international community respond?
Dr. Katz: The situation is fluid.Netanyahu has indicated that the presence of Israeli forces is a precaution until a more stable solution can be established in the region. The international community, particularly the United States and European allies, need to facilitate diplomatic efforts to restore order while together understanding the strategic imperatives driving Israeli defense policy.
Editor: Could you elaborate on the implications of israel’s recent military actions on the Golan Heights, especially with regards to international recognition?
Dr. Katz: Israel’s control over the Golan Heights has been a contentious issue since it was occupied during the Six-Day War in 1967 and subsequently annexed in 1981. Despite Israel’s claim over the territory, the international community largely does not recognise this annexation. With the increase in Israeli military presence in areas deemed essential for stabilizing control, it will inevitably lead to further debates over sovereignty and might escalate tensions with Syria and its allies.
Editor: What practical advice can you offer to policymakers navigating this complex situation?
Dr.Katz: Policymakers must prioritize open lines of communication not only with Israel but also with neighboring Arab nations, including Syria. Understanding the local power dynamics and engaging in dialog with all stakeholders can help mitigate conflicts.Moreover, there should be a focus on humanitarian efforts to aid civilians affected by this cycle of violence, wich could foster goodwill and pave the way for more lasting solutions.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Katz,for your insights into this critical topic. it’s clear that Mount Hermon holds not just historical importance but also pivotal strategic implications for the region.
Dr. Katz: Thank you. It was a pleasure discussing these essential issues with you.