Israel Won't Withdraw Troops From Syrian Buffer Zone, Defense Minister Says

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on September 23, 2026, that Israel has no intention of withdrawing its forces from Mount Hermon or the buffer zone within Syrian territory. This declaration came in response to Syrian President Ahmed al-Shar'a's address at the UN General Assembly, where he asserted that the Golan Heights remain Syrian land.

Katz firmly declared the Golan Heights to be an "inalienable and eternal part of Israel." He emphasized that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will maintain their positions in the security zone as long as Israeli authorities perceive a threat from jihadist groups. The minister also affirmed that Israel will not permit Syria to become a threat to its territory or populated areas.

He further warned that Israel would retaliate against any attack originating from Syria, adding that any territory captured during hostilities could remain under Israeli control. Israel gained control of most of the Golan Heights in 1967 and extended its jurisdiction over the territory in 1981. The international community, with the exception of states recognizing Israeli sovereignty, considers the Golan Heights to be Syrian territory.