Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have captured Syrian territory, creating a buffer zone by taking the Syrian side of Mount Hermon, which was what remained of Syrian control of the Golan Heights, according to the report by the Times of Israel. The IDF described it as a “defensive and temporary measure.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the area on Dec. 8, and described the IDF actions as necessary “to protect our border.” He furthermore stated that it was “temporary.”
The Israeli Air Force also continued its bombing campaign in Syria, reportedly striking military sites in Damascus and Latakia, as well as the Scientific Studies and Research Center in Barzeh, north of Damascus, a frequent target for Israeli airstrikes over the last decade or so.
