Illegal Israeli military operations in southern Syria have intensified, with forces continuing to push into new territories. On March 3, Israeli occupation forces entered the town of Jadida in the Quneitra countryside, following incursions into Muallaqa and Majdoulia. The Israeli military also established a checkpoint in Majdoulia and extended its presence to the villages of Ruwaihina and Rasm al-Halabi, as well as the Nabaa al-Sakhr road.
Israel Expands Syrian Invasion
This escalation has been marked by significant Israeli reconnaissance activity, particularly over the city of Tafas in Daraa. In recent weeks, Israeli forces have begun constructing military bases stretching from Mount Hermon to the Yarmouk Basin. Reports indicate that these sites are equipped with infrastructure such as electricity networks and residential facilities, signaling a long-term military presence.
In Daraa’s Yarmouk Basin, residents have reported multiple incursions by Israeli troops. Activists have described a state of heightened alert in several towns, with armed groups mobilizing in response to the Israeli advances. Local sources suggest that the Israeli army may be searching for specific individuals or weapons caches.
Israeli outlets report that Israel now controls three zones of fire and surveillance in Syria up to Damascus, overseeing 40,000 civilians, allowing the IDF to hinder Damascus’ consolidation and control of the south.
Airstrikes Target Military Sites
The Israeli military launched 41 airstrikes on Syrian targets between Monday night and Tuesday morning, marking the largest aerial assault in two months. The attacks reportedly focused on Syrian regime positions, including radar systems, military headquarters, and weapons depots. According to Israeli sources, the strikes aimed to neutralize perceived threats from Syrian forces.
Israeli warplanes bombed key Syrian military sites, including the 89th Regiment barracks in Jbab and the 12th Brigade in Izraa. The Quneitra countryside also came under attack, with the 90th Brigade suffering multiple airstrikes. The vicinity of Khalkhala military airport in Suwayda’s countryside was bombed Tuesday afternoon. Some sites were hit repeatedly, underscoring the scale of Israel’s military campaign.
Israeli officials have framed these attacks as “preemptive measures” against “potential threats.” Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated that the strikes were part of a broader effort to prevent Syria from becoming a security risk akin to southern Lebanon. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced this stance, calling for the “demilitarization” of Syria’s southern provinces.
Backlash Against Israel in Syria
Israel’s military activities in Syria have sparked widespread anger. Residents in the city of Tafas staged demonstrations condemning the incursions and demanding an end to the occupation. Protesters denounced Israeli intervention, emphasizing Syria’s territorial unity and rejecting any efforts to divide the country.
Despite Israel’s attempts to frame its operations as necessary for “national security,” its actions have drawn criticism from Syrian communities and international observers. Reports suggest that Israel is trying to leverage internal Syrian conflicts to expand its military influence, raising concerns about long-term geopolitical implications.
With tensions continuing to rise, Syria remains a focal point in Israel’s broader security strategy. As military operations escalate, the prospect of further conflict looms, leaving civilians caught in the crossfire of an increasingly volatile situation.
