IDF Chief Visits Southern Syria, Warns Turkey Against Military Build-Up Near Israeli Border

Israel's Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, conducted a visit inside southern Syria on Wednesday, delivering a stern warning to Turkey and other hostile forces attempting to establish a presence near Israel's northern border. Accompanied by Northern Command Chief Major General Rafi Milo and 210th Brigade Commander Brigadier General Yair Paley, Zamir toured the area and held an operational assessment meeting.

During the visit, Zamir emphasized Israel's commitment to preventing any foreign military entrenchment close to its borders, stating, "We will not allow hostile forces to establish themselves at our border and will apply our power precisely where and when needed. We must prevent the emergence of significant military threats on our borders." He highlighted the complex, multi-front nature of Israel's security challenges, with the Syrian front being a critical arena requiring constant vigilance and readiness.

Zamir also addressed the ongoing Israeli military operations within Syrian territory aimed at creating a forward defense zone to shield Israeli communities from threats. He noted that Israel remains alert to potential escalations across all fronts and is prepared to respond accordingly.

The visit follows an Israeli airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur military airport in Syria, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed was intended to disrupt Turkish efforts to establish a military base in the Idlib province and to maintain the existing security balance. This strike came after reports of a Turkish military delegation visiting the site.

In his remarks, Zamir praised the reservists serving in the region, acknowledging their extended deployments since the outbreak of the war and expressing gratitude for their dedication and sacrifices. The visit and statements underscore Israel's determination to counteract Turkish and Iranian-backed forces' attempts to increase their influence near Israel's borders.