IDF nearly strikes right-wing Israeli activists mistaken for terrorists near Syrian border

The IDF nearly conducted an aerial strike on five Israeli right-wing activists near the Syrian border two weeks ago, mistaking them for terrorists, Kan News reported. The activists, members of the HaBashan Pioneers movement, were identified near Mount Hermon by military surveillance. Zik aircraft were dispatched, but observers noticed the men had peyot, indicating they were observant Jews, just before the strike. The IDF "strongly condemn[ed]" the incident, calling it a "life-threatening criminal offense," and urged law enforcement to act decisively against such border crossings. The HaBashan Pioneers, who aim to establish Jewish settlements in Syrian territory, claimed a "shooting was carried out" and vowed to continue their efforts, stating, "We will not stop until a magnificent Jewish settlement is established in the Bashan region." This incident follows multiple arrests of activists attempting to cross the border, including a group of 100 on July 5.