Geneva – A United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria told the U.N. Human Rights Council on Tuesday that it is deeply alarmed by Israel’s sustained military presence inside Syrian territory. Commissioner Fionnuala Ní Aoláin said the operations, which now include ground incursions, patrols, raids and the establishment of checkpoints, have become “increasingly sustained and entrenched.”
Alleged Violations and Detentions
The commission documented the creation of temporary checkpoints and fixed military infrastructure in the southern provinces of Quneitra and Daraa. It reported that, as of June, 49 Syrian nationals – including two children – had been detained by Israeli forces on Syrian soil and were believed to have been transferred across the border. Some detainees are being held incommunicado, raising concerns about possible torture or ill‑treatment.
International Law Concerns
Ní Aoláin warned that these acts “may amount to war crimes,” describing Israel’s presence as a “belligerent occupation.” The commission said the actions violate Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, contravening the 1974 disengagement agreement that followed the 1973 Middle East war. Both the Syrian government and the United Nations have called the deployment unacceptable.
Israel’s Position
Israel argues that its incursions are temporary and necessary to protect its security, especially after the collapse of the Assad government in December 2024. Israeli officials say the moves are intended to secure the border during Syria’s political transition and to prevent hostile forces from threatening Israeli territory.
UN Response
The commission’s findings align with statements from U.N. Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres, who has said violations of Syria’s sovereignty must cease. Syria’s representative welcomed the report and reiterated Damascus’ commitment to cooperate with U.N. human‑rights mechanisms while seeking accountability for abuses committed under the former regime.
Broader Context
Syria is still rebuilding nearly two years after the fall of former President Bashar al‑Assad. The ongoing conflict and foreign military activity have contributed to displacement among residents and hampered reconstruction efforts. The UN’s alarm underscores the fragile security environment in the region and the need for all parties to respect international agreements.
While Israel has not responded to Reuters’ request for comment, the commission’s report adds pressure on the Israeli government to reassess its operations in southern Syria and to ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
