Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered the military to remain at Syria’s Mount Hermon until at least the end of 2025, according to a CNN source.

Israel seized the strategic peak, overlooking Lebanon, Syria, and Israel, after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime earlier this month.

While initially described as a temporary move, Netanyahu cited security concerns and the need for stability in Syria as reasons to maintain control.

Syria’s new leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, accused Israel of a land grab, echoed by Arab states.

Netanyahu defended the decision, emphasizing the need to prevent jihadi groups from threatening Israeli communities in the Golan Heights, CNN has reported.

Mount Hermon’s proximity to Damascus makes it a critical military position.

Written by B.C. Begley