Right-Wing Activists Spend Night on Syrian Hermon to Cement Israeli Presence

Following their activities on Sunday, several members of the right-wing group "Pioneers of Bashan" spent a full night on Mount Hermon, in the area recently captured by the IDF that was formerly part of Syria. The activists informed IDF soldiers in the area about their presence to avoid misunderstandings but did not disclose their exact location. Their stated goal is to establish a Jewish foothold in the territory until a permanent presence is secured.

The activists expressed concern over rising unrest among Syrians in the region and emphasized the need to prevent a situation similar to Lebanon by investing in civilian settlement. The Pioneers of Bashan called on government ministers to follow their example and approve permanent civilian settlement in the area. They warned that without such action, Israel risks ending up in a situation akin to the post-Operation Peace for Galilee security zone in Lebanon.

The group views settlement in Bashan as a natural extension of the Golan Heights communities, which would help stabilize the region, strengthen Israel's security, and realize what they describe as Israel's historical rights to these lands. They urged the right-wing government to demonstrate to Israel's enemies that the country intends to remain in the area permanently.