Israel Detains 49 Syrians After Seizing UN Buffer Zone

The Military of Israel has seized a UN-mandated buffer zone in southwestern Syria following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. Since December 2024, Israeli forces have detained 49 Syrians, justifying the operations as necessary to defend the northern border from Hezbollah and to target individuals suspected of terrorist activity. While 16 detainees have been released, many remain in custody at facilities including Ofer Prison and Sde Teiman Prison.

Israeli forces have disrupted daily life in the Quneitra and Daraa provinces by establishing checkpoints, conducting raids, and blocking access to farmland. Human rights groups and former detainees report systemic abuse, including torture, solitary confinement, and the use of stress positions. Israel denies these allegations of abuse.

Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa has demanded an immediate Israeli withdrawal from the buffer zone. Local officials in Quneitra have dismissed Israeli claims of militant activity in the region as baseless lies.