The Syrian government has strongly condemned Israel's recent land reclamation efforts near the occupied Golan Heights, describing them as a "flagrant violation" of the 1974 disengagement agreement. According to the Syrian Foreign Ministry, Israeli forces have resumed operations in the area west of al-Asha village in Quneitra province. The project, known as "Sofa 53," involves extensive land reclamation and construction of a military road along the separation line.
The Syrian Foreign Ministry has warned that continued Israeli aggression poses a direct threat to regional security and stability, undermining international law. The ministry called on the international community to take deterrent measures to halt these practices and prevent their recurrence. Syria reaffirmed its right to full sovereignty over its territory, in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions.
The "Sofa 53" project, also referred to as "Great Storm," began in mid-2022 near Hader in northern Quneitra and has since been expanded to several areas along the separation line. The project involves constructing a military road approximately 8 meters wide, accompanied by earthworks reaching up to 5 meters in height. Israeli forces have also established observation posts and military positions along the route.
According to Syrian sources, Israeli forces have advanced 300 to 1000 meters beyond the ceasefire line, with military activities intensifying in late 2024. Local residents have reported that the project's expansion has rendered thousands of acres of agricultural land in Quneitra's countryside unsuitable for farming and grazing, disrupting water flow and altering the region's natural landscape.
The Syrian government demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas and reaffirms its commitment to the 1974 disengagement agreement. Israel justifies its actions as necessary for security considerations. The international community has been urged to assume its legal and moral responsibilities to protect state sovereignty and respect borders.
The ongoing Israeli military activities in Syria have raised concerns about regional stability. Since the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime on December 8, 2024, Israel has escalated its military operations in Syria, deploying troops to the Golan buffer zone and nearby positions. The situation remains tense, with Syria insisting on its sovereignty and Israel citing security concerns.
The United Nations and other international organizations have been called upon to address the situation and enforce relevant resolutions. The Syrian government remains committed to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict, while emphasizing its determination to protect its territory and sovereignty.
Key points
- Israel's land reclamation project near the occupied Golan Heights has been condemned by Syria as a violation of the 1974 disengagement agreement.
- The project involves constructing a military road and earthworks, with Israeli forces advancing beyond the ceasefire line.
- The Syrian government demands Israel's withdrawal from occupied areas, citing sovereignty and international law.
