Syrian Villagers Near Golan Heights Claim Israeli Forces Are Blocking Access to Their Fields

Israeli forces have established a position in an abandoned Syrian military base in Maariyah, a village in southern Syria's Daraa province, according to local residents. The area is near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights but lies outside the buffer zone set by the 1974 ceasefire between Syria and Israel. Residents reported that Israeli troops have restricted access to their fields.

Abdel Raouf Issa, a resident of Maariyah, stated that Israeli forces have advanced approximately one kilometre into the village. He mentioned, "They are demanding we hand over all weapons to the occupation. We told them that we have no weapons at all." Issa also expressed frustration over restrictions on farming and movement, urging the United Nations to intervene.

Israeli Military Operations and Local Reactions

The Israeli military issued a statement saying it is operating within the buffer zone and nearby areas to ensure security along Israel's northern border. However, they did not specify exact troop locations. The military's actions have drawn criticism for allegedly violating the 1974 ceasefire agreement and exploiting Syria's instability following President Bashar Assad's ouster.

Kamal Saleh Damara, a local official, expressed mixed feelings about recent developments. "Thank God, we were happy that HTS came," he said, referring to Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an insurgent group. "But then Israel came, and it is preventing people from coming and going and moving."

International Concerns Over Golan Heights

Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria during the 1967 Mideast war and later annexed it, a move not widely recognised internationally. Recently, Israel seized a section of southern Syria near the Golan Heights after Assad was ousted by rebels on December 8. This capture has led to accusations of land grabbing amid Syria's chaos.

A group of residents and dignitaries from Quneitra province released a statement condemning Israeli actions. They claimed Israeli forces forcibly displaced some villagers despite their non-resistance. The statement urged Israeli withdrawal from key facilities like the Quneitra provincial government building and essential infrastructure.

Statements from Israeli Leadership

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu commented on Tuesday that Israeli forces would remain until a new arrangement ensures Israel's security. He made these remarks from Mount Hermon, located inside Syria about 10 kilometres from the Golan Heights border.

The situation remains tense as local residents continue to call for international intervention to address what they see as an occupation by Israeli forces in their region. The ongoing presence of Israeli troops has disrupted daily life for many in Maariyah and surrounding areas.