Tel Aviv, Israel – An Israeli researcher specializing in Iranian and Hezbollah affairs warned in an opinion piece published today of the growing Houthi presence in Syria. He called on Israel to take preemptive action to prevent the Iranian-backed Yemeni group from entrenching itself near its borders.
The researcher at the Misgav Institute for National Security pointed out that Defense Minister Yisrael Katz’s statements about the army’s readiness for the possibility of the Houthis attempting to advance towards the Golan Heights from inside Syria represent an important indication of the escalating threat.
He explained that reports of Hamas and Islamic Jihad strengthening their presence in Syria underscore the importance of Israel maintaining control over Mount Hermon. This remains crucial in areas under Israeli military control since the collapse of the Assad regime in December 2014.
The article noted that the presence of Houthi elements in Syria dates back several years. Recent reports have indicated the arrival of fighters specializing in missile launches in southern Syria, allegedly to carry out attacks against Israel.
The researcher concluded by emphasizing the necessity for Israel to adhere to its security doctrine, which rejects the presence of any hostile armed groups near its borders. It is crucial to ensure the exclusion of elements of the “axis of resistance” in any future arrangements within Syria.
