Defense Minister Israel Katz announced during a visit to the Syrian side of Mount Hermon that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will remain there indefinitely to ensure the security of the Golan Heights and the north. Katz also stated that Israel will make contact with friendly populations in southern Syria, particularly the Druze community. Previously, Israel had described its takeover of the buffer zone as a temporary measure, but Katz's remarks indicate a change in policy. The IDF has published footage showing the construction of temporary army posts on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon.