Israeli troops infiltrate 25 km inside Syrian territory
Israeli forces have taken advantage of the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime to penetrate strategic areas in Quneitra governorate in southern Syria, according to Al Jazeera’s fact-checking agency Sanad.
The Israeli army’s control of Mount Hermon and several surrounding villages and towns within the demilitarised zone have now reached a depth of at least up to 25km (15 miles) inside Syrian territory and are not far from the capital, Damascus.
No permanent military posts have been detected in the controlled villages and towns yet, but Mount Hermon is considered a vital strategic location with suitable infrastructure that enables Israeli forces to remain there for a long period if deemed necessary.
It also overlooks vast areas of southern Syria and the occupied Golan Heights, making it a constant target in regional conflicts.
Israel has claimed its presence is temporary and aimed at ensuring that the areas adjacent to the occupied Golan Heights are not exposed to any potential security threats.
Source: Al Jazeera