New Territories Under IDF Control

Highlighted in blue are the areas Israel has occupied in the past 24 hours, including:

• Quneitra Province, a strategic region near the border.
• Demilitarized Zone, established by the 1974 agreement, which Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared invalid.

Israel’s Next Targets

Based on current operations, Israel’s next steps could include:

• Daraa Province, a key southern region.
• As-Suwayda Province, predominantly populated by the Druze community, historically tied to the area.

Israel’s Strategy: Disarming Syria

Israel is targeting key Syrian military assets, such as:

• Weapons depots.
• Air defense systems.
• Military facilities.

These actions are leaving Syria defenseless. Notably, Syria has reportedly refrained from any provocative actions, such as missile strikes or infiltration into Israeli territory.

Context and Absence of Triggers

Unlike conflicts with Lebanon or Gaza, Syria has not launched rockets or engaged in militant incursions against Israel. Even with the withdrawal of Iranian and Lebanese forces from Syrian territory, Israel has escalated its actions, challenging the premise of self-defense often cited by Israeli officials.

Reactions to the Occupation

International and regional forces, including opposition groups in Idlib, have largely remained silent on Israel’s actions. This lack of response raises questions about divided interests in the region.

Conclusion

Israel’s continued expansion in Syria raises concerns about its true foreign policy objectives. By employing “preemptive strikes,” Israel increasingly disregards international norms, casting doubt on its narrative of self-defense.