IDF soldier participating in a military drill in the Golan Heights, simulating a battle on Israel's northeastern border. Photo: IDF.

The Israel Defense Forces on Tuesday said a new division was created to secure the Golan Heights and Mount Hermon regions.

The division will “enhance the IDF’s defensive, operational and rapid response capabilities on all fronts and confront potential security threats in the region,” the IDF said in a statement.

The “Bashan Division” will be led by Brigadier General Ofek Bruchris, the IDF said.

A ceremony was held on Tuesday in the presence of the Chief of the General Staff, Lt. Gen. Benjamin Gantz and Major General Yair Golan, the Commanding Officer of the Northern Command.