Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu crossed into Syrian territory on Tuesday, signaling that Israeli forces will remain indefinitely in the area following the recent downfall of Syrian President Bashar Assad. Netanyahu’s visit to the Syrian side of the 50-year-old demilitarized buffer zone has blurred the already fragile border with its northern neighbor, drawing international attention and criticism.

Speaking atop Mount Hermon, overlooking Syrian territory, Netanyahu justified the move as a temporary defensive measure. He emphasized that Israeli troops would stay “until another arrangement is found that will ensure Israel’s security.” The development comes after Israel swiftly moved into the buffer zone earlier this month following Assad’s ouster by opposition forces on December 8.

Since its creation in 1948, Israel’s borders have been shaped by wars, annexations, and peace agreements. The demilitarized buffer zone with Syria was established after the 1973 Mideast war but has become a focal point of renewed tension. Over the years, Israel’s military activities and settlement expansions in regions such as the West Bank, Gaza, and the Golan Heights have drawn international scrutiny.

Netanyahu’s remarks about bolstering the settler population in the Golan Heights reflect a continuation of policies that began with Israel’s 1981 annexation of the region. While the move was recognized by the Trump administration in 2019, it remains widely considered as occupied Syrian territory under international law.

The collapse of Assad’s regime has left Syria fragmented and vulnerable. Ahmad al-Sharaa, leader of Syria’s largest insurgent group, condemned Israel’s actions but indicated that Syria is not seeking a direct military confrontation. Meanwhile, the newly-formed Syrian government has filed a formal complaint with the U.N. Security Council, accusing Israel of territorial aggression.

The international community has expressed concern over the potential escalation of hostilities. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for restraint, urging all parties involved in Syria to avoid sparking further conflicts. Key regional players, including Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia, have also criticized Israel’s extended presence.

Analysts remain divided on Israel’s long-term intentions in Syria. Carmit Valensi of Israel’s Institute for National Security Studies believes a prolonged occupation is unlikely due to economic and military constraints. “If a moderate regime emerges in Syria, there would be little reason for Israel to hold onto those territories for the long term,” Valensi noted.

For now, Israel’s continued presence in Syrian territory underscores the precarious nature of borders in the region and raises questions about the long-term stability of the Middle East.