Damascus views a renewed Russian presence as a potential deterrent against Israeli airstrikes, which Tel Aviv argues are aimed at protecting the Druze community and maintaining control over the Golan Heights buffer zone.
The independent outlet Suwayda 24 reported that around 450 people have been unaccounted for since the onset of the conflict, which has seen clashes between Druze and Bedouin factions.
The settlers breached the border fence from the occupied West Bank, erected a sign for the settlement, and held a ceremonial event that included dancing and the planting of flowers in memory of a fallen Israeli soldier.
President Al-Shara welcomed members from both chambers of the US Congress, including Senators Markwayne Mullin and Joni Ernst, as well as Representatives Jason Smith and Jimmy Panetta.
