Two arrested as settler activists organize repeated crossings into southern Syria

Israeli security forces apprehended two civilians who had crossed into Syrian territory from the Mount Hermon area on Thursday, marking the latest incident in a series of unauthorized border crossings by right-wing activists.

The military strongly condemned the act, labeling it a "serious disruption to operational activity" that endangered troops. Law enforcement authorities were urged to prosecute those involved to prevent recurrence of the criminal offense.

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another case of serious disruption to operational activity

These crossings are orchestrated by the right-wing Bashan Pioneers movement, which advocates for establishing Israeli civilian communities in southern Syria. The movement reported that activists returned to a site called "Tal Hermon" immediately after its evacuation on Wednesday, only to be detained again on Thursday. They vowed that "the next group is already on its way."

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Law-enforcement authorities are required to bring those involved to justice, in order to prevent the same civilians from repeatedly engaging in this phenomenon, which constitutes a criminal offense.

Over the past several months, more than 150 suspects have been caught attempting to cross the Israel-Syria border in 16 separate incidents. An organizer with the Bashan Pioneers stated that over 1,000 activists have participated in the movement's activities, with hundreds risking detention.

Some activists remain in custody, while others have been released under conditions such as house arrest or exclusion from the Golan Heights. The organizer also alleged that police confiscated activists' phones and personal property and accused authorities of discriminating against right-wing activists compared to other protest groups.

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The next group is already on its way.