Israel deploys paratroopers to Syria in ‘defense activities’ after fall of Assad
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) made a bold move on Sunday by deploying paratroopers into Syria to conduct “defense activities” following the fall of former Syrian President Bashar Assad’s regime. The IDF stated that the deployment was necessary to proactively ensure the defense of the Golan Heights amidst the instability in Syria. Videos and images captured paratroopers and heavily armored tanks moving into the buffer zone, showcasing the seriousness of the situation. This action comes in the wake of both the U.S. and Israel launching strikes on various targets within Syria after Assad’s removal from power.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar revealed on Monday that Israel had also targeted suspected Syrian chemical weapons sites. Assad’s use of chemical weapons on civilians during the Obama administration was a major concern for both the U.S. and Israel. Steps are being taken to prevent these weapons from falling into the hands of the Islamist rebels who now control Syria.
“The only interest we have is the security of Israel and its citizens,” Saar emphasized. “That’s why we attacked strategic weapons systems like remaining chemical weapons or long-range missiles and rockets to prevent them from being seized by extremists.”
Leaders in the U.S. and Israel have welcomed Assad’s downfall while expressing apprehension about the future leadership in Syria. The primary rebel group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, is a known terrorist organization with ties to both ISIS and al Qaeda, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commended Assad’s removal and announced the troop movements as a preemptive measure against potential threats. He highlighted the collapse of the Separation of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syria, necessitating the Israeli army’s occupation of abandoned Syrian positions near the border.
Netanyahu extended a “hand of peace” to the people of Syria, including those Muslims who seek peaceful coexistence with Israel. President Biden echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the historic moment in Syria’s history while cautioning about the uncertainties and risks that lie ahead.
Assad, along with his family, fled Damascus before rebel forces captured the city. He has since sought asylum in Moscow, marking the end of his brutal regime. The future of Syria remains uncertain, but opportunities for positive change are now emerging in the region.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter for Fox News Digital covering national politics and breaking news, contributed to this report. For more updates and insights, follow him on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
