Story perspectives

Israel Seizes Abdin Buffer Zone, Syria Demands Withdrawal

7/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

Israeli troops entered Abdin, fired warning shots and artillery, causing no injuries as residents blocked roads with rocks and threw stones.
Israel says the 235-square-kilometre buffer zone seized in December 2024 is needed to stop militant attacks and may be held indefinitely.
Syrian interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa demanded Israel withdraw from the UN-defined area and condemned the incursion.
Residents cite stalled talks, utility shortages and raid fears to leave.

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Story summary

Israeli troops entered Abdin, fired warning shots and artillery, causing no injuries as residents blocked roads with rocks and threw stones.
Israel says the 235-square-kilometre buffer zone seized in December 2024 is needed to stop militant attacks and may be held indefinitely.
Syrian interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa demanded Israel withdraw from the UN-defined area and condemned the incursion.
Residents cite stalled talks, utility shortages and raid fears to leave.