Israeli Activists Regularly Cross Into Syrian Territory to Push for Jewish Settlements
During Israel's prolonged conflicts, the IDF has maintained military control over areas in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, while civilian borders remain unchanged. In Syria, a group called "Pioneers of Bashan" has emerged, seeking to transform the Israeli military presence into permanent Jewish settlements in the region known biblically as Bashan, which Israel has controlled since the fall of the Assad regime and the rise of Ahmad al-Shara in December 2024.
The activists have conducted at least 17 unauthorized crossings into Syrian territory, sometimes going unnoticed by the IDF and returning to Israel without detention. They argue that civilian settlement is essential for Israel to maintain long-term control and security, citing the example of Israel's withdrawal from southern Lebanon, which allowed Hezbollah to strengthen. The group views their actions as both ideological and strategic, aiming to prevent future security threats by establishing a civilian presence alongside the military.
The IDF opposes these incursions, warning they divert military resources and risk violent confrontations or kidnappings. A security official described the phenomenon as escalating and potentially leading to a strategic disaster. Despite these concerns, activists like David Atiya and Yehonatan Levi insist the incursions highlight security gaps and stress that civilian settlement is crucial for Israel's hold on the area.
Politically, the Pioneers of Bashan have garnered support from over ten right-wing Knesset members, including Tali Gottlieb, Avichai Boaron, Amit Halevi, and Ariel Kallner from Likud, as well as members of Otzma Yehudit. They are organizing family groups interested in relocating to the area and claim to have received backing from some Druze communities across the border in Syria, who allegedly welcome Jewish settlement as protection against hostile forces.
While the establishment of Jewish settlements in Bashan remains a distant goal dependent on political and security decisions, the activists draw parallels to the once-unthinkable settlements in northern Samaria, which have since become reality. Their ongoing efforts underscore a push to convert Israel's military foothold in Syria into civilian communities, reflecting a broader strategy to solidify Israeli presence in contested border areas.
