Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed that he has instructed the army to prepare for an extended presence on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon throughout the upcoming winter months amid heightened security concerns in the region.

"Due to the ongoing developments in Syria, holding the Hermon peak has immense strategic importance," Katz said in a statement. "Every effort must be made to ensure that the Israeli army is fully prepared to operate in the area, enabling our troops to remain there despite the harsh winter weather conditions."

The order followed a comprehensive security assessment held by Katz on Thursday, where he was joined by army Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and other senior military officers. Together, they evaluated the evolving security situation and the operational readiness required for the winter months.

Mount Hermon, located in the Golan Heights, holds significant military value due to its strategic position overlooking both Syria and Israel. 

Israel seized the demilitarized zone on the strategic plateau on Sunday, just hours after Syrian rebels had toppled president Bashar al-Assad.