Israeli Defense Minister Vows No Withdrawal from Golan Amid Syrian Demands

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared during a visit to the Golan Heights on Tuesday that Israel will not withdraw from the area or its security zone as long as jihadist threats persist on its border. Katz emphasized that Israel's presence sends a clear message to the new Syrian leadership, stating, "When you wake up in the palace in Damascus and look up at the Golan Heights and see the IDF, you know we are here to protect our settlements and our border." Katz also addressed Turkey's increasing involvement in Syria, asserting that Israel has acted to prevent Turkish moves that could jeopardize its security interests, and pledged to continue doing so.

The visit included senior military officials such as Deputy Chief of Staff Tamir Yadai and Northern Command Chief Rafi Milo. Katz received briefings on regional activities and praised the soldiers and commanders for their efforts.

These firm statements come amid behind-the-scenes talks between Israel and Syria aimed at reducing tensions. Earlier this week, reports surfaced of a direct meeting between Syrian Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad and Mossad Chief David Barnea following an Israeli airstrike on a Syrian airbase. Both Israeli and Syrian officials have not confirmed the meeting.

Meanwhile, Damascus is pushing to renew negotiations with Israel over a security agreement, demanding Israeli troop withdrawal from Syrian-held territories. Syrian Foreign Minister Mekdad told Reuters that the sides were close to an agreement earlier this year involving UN-monitored buffer zones, but Israel later failed to implement the understandings. He called for an end to Israeli strikes and urged Israel to seize a "historic opportunity" for diplomacy, while affirming Syria's continued cooperation with Turkey and appreciation for Ankara's support in rebuilding the Syrian army.