Derby council refuses to revive dirty waterfall despite public outcry

In recent days, Israel has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining control over a 155-square-mile area captured following the collapse of the Syrian government. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Mount Hermon for a briefing with IDF (Israel Defense Forces) personnel, where he stated that decisions regarding military deployment are made to ensure Israel's security until a suitable arrangement is established. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the military's prolonged presence in the region. The Israeli government argues that its operations in the demilitarized zone serve as a defensive response to the instability following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The international community has responded with significant concern, as the United Nations condemned Israel's actions as violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement, which established the demilitarized zone and granted UN Peacekeeping Forces authority over border security between Syria and Israel. The UN spokesman stated that such occupations are considered breaches regardless of their duration. Experts like Merissa Khurma of the Wilson Center express that Israel's actions undermine the efforts of Syrian rebel leaders to establish credible governance and stability amid the chaos. In addition to military operations, these incursions have reportedly included airstrikes targeting abandoned military equipment and infrastructure to prevent the newly emerging rebel forces, many with Islamist backgrounds, from acquiring military capabilities similar to those of Assad's government. These actions have heightened tensions with Syrian rebel leadership, which recognizes Israel's presence and ceases to support conflicts that could provoke further instability in the region. The local Syrian population has expressed concern over occupation and military assertiveness near their communities, fearing repercussions from IDF personnel. As rebels strive to present themselves as a moderate force capable of transitional governance, they face the challenge of balancing the need to respond to Israel while also focusing on establishing their authority. The current situation poses particular dilemmas for the leadership of Ahmed al-Sharaa, who emphasized a commitment to the 1974 agreement and the need for the Israeli military to withdraw, highlighting the need for peace and stability for the Syrian people. As circumstances evolve, the complex interplay of military, political, and social factors continues to shape the region's future.