The IDF said it detained several Israeli civilians who illegally crossed the Syrian border. The military noted a recent increase in border crossing attempts into Syria, both successful and unsuccessful.
The IDF confirmed early Saturday that it detained several Israeli civilians who illegally crossed the Syrian border, the latest in a series of incidents reported Friday evening. The military noted a recent increase in border crossing attempts, both successful and unsuccessful, and reiterated that the activity is a criminal offense that diverts attention from operational missions.
On Friday evening at 22:42 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported multiple updates on the incident. The IDF said Israeli civilians crossed into Syria near Majdal Shams on Thursday, spent a full day there, and were located and detained Friday. The military also prevented additional crossing attempts in the southern Golan Heights on Friday, warning of a rising pattern that endangers civilians and soldiers. All suspects were handed over to police for questioning.
The Zioneer has previously reported on similar attempts by the 'Bashan Pioneers' activist group, including detentions on July 9 in the Mount Hermon area and on July 13 in the southern Golan Heights. The IDF has condemned these activities as criminal offenses that divert resources from operational missions.
The military did not disclose the number of detainees or their identities. The investigation has been transferred to the police.
11 developments
- ConfirmedIDF detains settler activists after overnight attempt to cross into Syria at Mount Hermon
- ConfirmedIDF detains 'Bashan Pioneers' settlers attempting to cross into Syria in southern Golan Heights
- DevelopingIsraeli security forces apprehend illegal residents
- DevelopingIDF estimates incident near Syria border approaching conclusion
Source and signal
- Internal intake