IDF soldiers gather near the ceasefire line between Syria and the Golan Heights, 8 December 2024 Photo by Stoyan Nenov / Reuters
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have taken control of the Syrian part of the Hermon mountain range and conducted air strikes on a chemical plant of the Syrian regime. These steps are aimed at strengthening security in the region and preventing the transfer of dangerous weapons into the hands of extremists.
Controlling Hermon: a strategic advantage
The IDF confirmed that it had taken control of the Syrian part of Mount Hermon on Sunday, 8 December. This ridge provides a key strategic position due to its height and panoramic view of the region. Israel is seeking to establish an extended demilitarised zone on its border with Syria, preventing threats from Syrian forces or new groups that might attempt to attack.
Strikes on chemical facilities
Earlier on Sunday, the IDF struck a Syrian chemical plant to prevent its capture by rebels. According to military sources, the facility could pose a significant threat, especially if it fell into the hands of jihadist groups.
The IDF stressed that the main goal is to prevent the use of chemical weapons or their transfer to enemy forces that pose a threat to Israel or its allies.
Political chaos in Syria: challenges for Israel
While Syrian rebels announced the capture of Damascus and the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Israel faced new challenges. Military sources report that the disintegration of the Tehran-Damascus-Beirut “axis of resistance” creates both opportunities and threats.
“Some of Syria’s new leaders are unpredictable jihadists, which could lead to destabilisation of the region, including Jordan,” the military command said.
Massive strikes on Syria
Israel conducted a series of air strikes on strategic targets in Syria, including a research centre in the Kafr Sousa area of Damascus and other places associated with the development of Iranian missiles. In the capital, rebels also stormed the Iranian embassy, indicating an escalation of the inter-Syrian conflict.
Strengthening defences in the Golan
Against the backdrop of these developments, the IDF decided to reinforce troops along the Golan Heights to protect against possible attacks by Syrian rebels. “We are ready for any scenario,” said IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Galevi during a visit to the border region.
The situation remains tense
The Israeli army has stressed that its presence on the Syrian side of Hermon is temporary and will depend on agreements with the new Syrian government. At the same time, attention is paid to the security of friends on both sides of the border and coordination with international partners, including the United States, Turkey and Russia.
Despite the chaos in Syria, Israel continues to pursue a policy of containment, while responding quickly to any new threats to its security.
