Israeli army detains 14 citizens after crossing into Syria — Jerusalem Post
In Israel, the Israel Defense Forces detained 14 citizens of the country who crossed the border in the Golan Heights and entered Syrian territory. After detaining them, the military returned them to Israel, the Jerusalem Post reports, citing an army statement.
Members of the “Pioneers of Bashan” movement
According to the Israeli military, those detained belong to the “Pioneers of Bashan” movement. The publication describes it as an ultranationalist settler movement whose members seek to establish Jewish-Israeli settlements on Syrian territory.
The Israel Defense Forces condemned the border crossing, stating that such actions interfere with operational activity and pose a danger to service members operating in the area. The military also said that law enforcement agencies must hold those involved fully accountable, as such actions constitute a criminal offense.
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Statements by the movement’s leader
The “Pioneers of Bashan” movement was created in April 2025. Its name derives from the biblical region of Bashan, which includes parts of southwestern Syria and northern Jordan. Members of the movement claim a historical right to these lands and assert that settlements will help Israel defend the Golan Heights.
The movement’s leader, Amos Azaria, stated his intention to create a so-called humanitarian corridor from Israel to the Druze enclave in Suwayda, located nearly 100 kilometers inside Syria. According to an Israel Defense Forces spokesperson, since its founding, movement members have been involved in at least nine cases of illegal entry into Syrian territory.
