Israel Reportedly Shoots Down Drone From Syria

JERUSALEM – The Israeli military said Sunday that it shot down a drone that entered Israeli-controlled airspace from neighboring Syria, heightening tensions in the volatile Golan Heights.

Military spokesman Lt. Col. Peter Lerner said the aircraft apparently belonged to the Syrian military and accidentally crossed over into the Israeli-controlled side of the Golan. It was shot down with a Patriot missile.

"We have repeatedly stated that we will respond to any breach of Israel's sovereignty and will continue to act to maintain safety and security," Lerner said.

The military said the incident occurred near Quneitra, a main crossing point between Syria and the Israeli-controlled Golan.

The Quneitra area has experienced heavy fighting in recent days between Syrian government troops and rebels. More