An hour’s drive from Damascus, on a country road into the Syrian village of Hadar, we encounter Israel’s army. Two military vehicles and several soldiers in full combat gear man an impromptu checkpoint – a foreign authority in a country celebrating its freedom. They signal for us to pass.
This scene is a clear example of Israel’s presence in Syrian territory – a temporary seizure, they claim, of a UN-monitored buffer zone established in a ceasefire agreement half a century ago. Residents like Riyad Zaidan express cautious optimism for the future, but acknowledge the uncertainty of the situation.
The village chief, Jawdat al-Tawil, points out the Golan Heights territory occupied by Israel in 1967, visible from Hadar’s terraces. Many residents have relatives still living in that area. Now, they witness Israeli forces moving through their village, with parts extending into the demilitarized zone. Israeli bulldozers are seen working on the hillside above.
Since the fall of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad, Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes on military targets across Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced plans to increase the population of Israeli settlements in the occupied Golan Heights, citing a “new front” in Syria.
Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has expressed concerns about Israel’s military activities risking escalation in the region. The Israeli Foreign Ministry defends its actions as necessary due to threats from jihadist groups along the ceasefire line with Syria.
The residents of Hadar, mainly from the Druze community, have a complex relationship with Israel. Some fear Israel’s intentions to expand its territory, especially with the weakening of groups aligned with Assad and Iran. Israel has escalated its military efforts in Syria, targeting equipment left by Assad’s forces.
The Druze in Hadar, marginalized by the Assad regime, have been more open to dialogue with Israel. Amid shifting alliances and a desire for peace, residents like Riyad Zaidan emphasize the need to end the cycle of conflict and suffering.
While the new leaders in Syria promise tolerance and respect for religious minorities, including the Druze, the complex history of alliances and conflicts in the region continues to shape the uncertain future for communities like Hadar. “Se supone que deben gobernar con justicia, proporcionar seguridad y garantizar los derechos de las personas”, dijo. “Todavía no está claro si han cambiado”, agregó. “Espero que sí”. Con reportes adicionales de Yousef Shomali, Charlotte Scarr y Mayar Mohanna.