Netanyahu tells IDF soldiers their presence in Syria is of ‘immense importance’

Netanyahu thanked the deployed soldiers and engaged with them directly about the conditions on the ground.

By Vered Weiss. World Israel News

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited IDF troops in Syria on Wednesday and told them their presence in the area is “of immense importance.”

“We attach immense importance to our capability here, both defensive and offensive,” Netanyahu told the soldiers, adding that key priorities were “safeguarding our Druze allies, and especially safeguarding the State of Israel and its northern border opposite the Golan Heights.”

“This is a mission that can develop at any moment, but we are counting on you,” he said.

Netanyahu began the day at an observation post overlooking the sector, where he received a field assessment before sitting down with commanders for a broader security review, according to The Times of Israel.

The prime minister spoke with both regular and reserve troops, offering thanks for their deployment and engaging them directly about conditions on the ground.

The Prime Minister’s Office said the soldiers voiced determination to remain in the area, noting that several were already serving their sixth rotation.

The prime minister traveled with Defense Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir and Shin Bet Director David Zini.

Officials said the purpose of the visit was to personally acknowledge the soldiers’ role in stabilizing the zone, which the IDF has controlled since the Syrian regime collapsed in December 2024.

Israel currently operates nine posts inside southern Syria, most within the UN-supervised buffer area between the two countries, with two additional sites positioned on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon.

Damascus has repeatedly argued that Israel’s deployment is illegal and violates its sovereignty.

Israeli officials, meanwhile, say talks that were meant to address future security arrangements with Syria have “stalled,” leaving the current posture unchanged for now.