Ankara:Syria strongly condemned Israeli excavation work near the separation line with the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, labeling it a 'flagrant breach' of the 1974 disengagement agreement.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Syrian Foreign Ministry criticized the project known as 'Sofa 53,' as Israeli forces resumed excavations west of al-Asha village in Quneitra province. The ministry stated that these actions represent ongoing violations within the buffer zone established by the disengagement agreement.

The ministry warned that Israel's actions pose a direct threat to regional security and stability and undermine international law. It called on the international community to take measures to halt such practices and reaffirmed Syria's right to full sovereignty over its territory under international law and relevant UN resolutions.

Syria's Al-Ikhbariya television channel reported that the project involves the construction of a military road within the buffer zone, beginning near Hader in northern Quneitra and extending through various villages. The road, approximately 8 meters wide and flanked by 5-meter-high earth berms, includes observation posts and military positions along the ceasefire line in the occupied Golan Heights.

Syrian accounts claim Israeli forces have advanced beyond the ceasefire line, with construction accelerating in late 2024 following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime. Residents have reported that the project's expansion has negatively impacted agricultural land and water flows in rural Quneitra.

Following Assad's fall on December 8, 2024, Israel expanded military operations in Syria, moving troops into the Golan buffer zone. Syria demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces and remains committed to the 1974 disengagement agreement, while Israel cites security considerations for its actions.