IDF Spokesman Lt. Col. Jonathan Conricus explains the history and importance of the international border zone between Israel & Syria on the Golan Heights.
In the past, military units of the Syrian government have used the Golan Heights to conduct artillery bombardment of Israeli settlements below. In 1974, the United States and the Soviet Union brokered an agreement between Israel and Syria to establish a military free buffer zone along the border. Since that time, Syrian forces have repeatedly violated the agreement.
In 2019, the Trump administration recognized Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights. This recognition has been summarily rejected by nations in the region including the Russian government.
Despite United Nations supervision of the Golan Heights buffer zone, hostile action on the part of Syria continues. The Israel Defense Force stands ready to defend its citizens as explained by Lt. Col. Conricus.
Written by Richard Paracka
