The Israeli Defense Forces said earlier today it detained dozens of settlement activists who tried to cross into Syria and handed them to police for questioning. The activists, who call themselves 'Bashan Pioneers', have made repeated crossing attempts over the past year and press for establishing settlements in the area; they have support from some lawmakers. The IDF described the incident as a serious criminal act that endangered soldiers and civilians.

2026-07-06

The Israeli Defense Forces said earlier today it detained dozens of settlement activists who tried to cross into Syria and handed them to police for questioning. The activists, who call themselves 'Bashan Pioneers', have made repeated crossing attempts over the past year and press for establishing settlements in the area; they have support from some lawmakers. The IDF described the incident as a serious criminal act that endangered soldiers and civilians.