Israeli military returns dozens of civilians after brief crossing into Syria
The Israeli military said it detained and returned dozens of Israeli civilians on Wednesday after they briefly crossed into Syrian territory, with local media reporting that the group consisted of activists linked to a settler organisation.
According to the army, around 40 individuals gathered near Israel’s northern border before entering Syria and advancing several hundred metres inside the territory.
The IDF said its forces intercepted the group, brought them back into Israel, and handed them over to police for questioning.
“The IDF strongly condemns this incident and emphasises its severity, which constitutes a criminal offence that endangers civilians and IDF troops,” the military statement said.
UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Claudio Cordone also condemned the incursion, calling it “highly provocative” and urging respect for Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reiterated calls for adherence to the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement.
Israel’s public broadcaster Kan shared footage on X, saying it showed members of the “Pioneers of Bashan” organisation briefly occupying a rooftop near the Syrian village of Hader at the base of Mount Hermon.
The group reportedly advocates for Israeli settlement expansion into southern Syria and posted images online claiming they remained in the area until authorities approve settlement plans.
Kan noted that similar crossings have occurred in the past, with limited official condemnation from senior Israeli leadership.
Since the ouster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Israel has increased its military activity in the region, including operations in the UN-monitored buffer zone on the Golan Heights and reported strikes and incursions inside Syria.