Beirut: Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz visited the Israeli forces stationed in southern Syria on Tuesday, pledging to maintain their presence in the area "as long as there are threats." Damascus condemned the visit, describing it as an "illegal entry" and a violation of the country's sovereignty.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, during the visit, Katz stated that Israeli forces conduct "daily operations" to thwart what he termed as 'threats' and prevent the establishment of a presence that poses a danger to Israel. He added that the Israeli army will remain there to ensure Israel's security "as long as there are threats."

In response, the Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned Katz's "illegal entry" into Syrian territory, considering his crossing of the international border a "blatant violation of the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Damascus called on the international community to take measures to force Israel to stop its "repeated violations."