Settler activists illegally cross into Syria, stay for full day before being nabbed by IDF

A group of Israeli settler activists, identifying as the Bashan Pioneers, illegally crossed into Syria near Majdal Shams on Thursday and remained there for a full day before being apprehended by IDF troops on Friday. This incident follows an increase in similar attempts by activists seeking to establish settlements in the area, with some receiving support from coalition lawmakers. The IDF stated that such actions "divert IDF soldiers’ attention from their ongoing operational activities and compromise security" and constitute "a criminal offense that endangers civilians and IDF soldiers." The military, which has deployed to nine posts inside southern Syria since December 2024, also reported preventing other activists from crossing the border on Friday.