Right-Wing Activists Cross Into Syria Multiple Times Without Prosecution Amid Security Concerns

In recent months, dozens of activists from the right-wing civilian movement "Pioneers of Bashan," established in 2025 to promote Jewish settlement in Syria's Bashan region and the Mount Hermon area, have crossed the northern border into Syria. Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers have repeatedly removed them from hostile territory. Despite these actions being illegal and investigations being opened, no indictments have been filed against those involved.

Security officials have labeled this phenomenon a serious operational threat, noting an increase in such incidents over recent months. In April, dozens crossed near Majdal Shams, and on July 5, about 70 others attempted to enter Syria via the Hermon area but were stopped. The activists have been seen praying on Syrian soil, raising concerns about the security risks posed by these unauthorized crossings.

Officials warn that these incursions not only violate the law but also endanger lives and divert military resources from critical operational missions along the border. Senior security figures have privately criticized the lack of deterrent legal consequences for the activists. A recent incident highlighted these risks when five suspects near the Syrian border were nearly attacked from the air by the IDF, initially mistaken for militants, only to be identified at the last moment as right-wing activists.

The only indictment related to crossing into Syria involved a different case from about a year ago, when dozens of Druze crossed to assist family members in the Suwayda area. Two northern residents were charged after returning with a Kalashnikov rifle and magazine. They were initially investigated by the Shin Bet but later treated as a criminal matter.

The Israeli Police stated they take all illegal border crossings seriously and open investigations, forwarding cases to the prosecution after inquiry. The Attorney General's Office said no investigation files related to these recent incidents have been received yet, but any future cases will be examined based on evidence and enforcement policy.