What We Know After Rebels Topple Assad Regime in Syria, Israeli Forces Cross Into Syria’s Golan Heights, Occupying Territory To Create a Buffer Zone Near Its Border

Following the rapid collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, several significant developments have taken place:

Israeli forces have moved into the demilitarized buffer zone in the Golan Heights for the first time in 50 years. This action was taken after Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordering troops to occupy the area to ensure security and prevent hostile forces from establishing near the border. The move was described as a temporary defensive position until a more permanent arrangement could be established. Israeli tanks and armored vehicles have been deployed, creating a buffer zone to secure their border.

Israel has also conducted airstrikes on Syrian military bases and weapons depots, particularly those associated with chemical weapons and missile sites, to prevent these from falling into the hands of rebel groups. These strikes were reported in various parts of Syria, including Damascus, and were aimed at neutralizing threats from potential misuse of advanced weaponry.

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) has been involved in monitoring the area, but with the collapse of the Assad regime, the situation has become more volatile. Israel's actions have been criticized by some as potentially exploiting the chaos in Syria for territorial gain, although Israel has communicated these moves as defensive to the U.S. and others.

Residents in Syrian villages near the Golan Heights have been warned by the Israeli military to stay indoors, and agricultural areas in the Israeli-controlled part of the Golan have been declared as closed military zones. This has led to some disruption, including schools shifting to online classes due to the increased military activity.

Netanyahu has described the collapse of Assad's regime as a "historic day for the Middle East," suggesting it offers new opportunities but also significant dangers. He emphasized Israel's commitment to peace with those in Syria who desire it, while also stating readiness to defend Israel's borders if necessary.

The rebel forces, led by figures with ties to Islamist groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), have taken over significant parts of Syria, including Damascus. This has raised questions about the future governance and stability of Syria, especially considering the leader of HTS, Abu Mohammed al-Jawlani, has roots in the Golan Heights.

These developments reflect a complex and rapidly evolving situation in the region post-Assad, with implications for both local and international politics, security, and humanitarian conditions.