Israeli forces launched a series of airstrikes and ground incursions in southern Syria late Tuesday, targeting multiple locations in the provinces of Daraa and Quneitra. The Israeli military acknowledged the attacks, describing them as part of a broader strategy to prevent what it calls a “growing military presence” near “its borders.”
Air & Ground Attacks Target Southern Syria
According to Syrian state media, the strikes focused on the Al-Kiswah area, south of Damascus, as well as military positions in Quneitra and Daraa. Residents in Damascus reported hearing loud explosions, with local sources confirming the presence of Israeli warplanes and drones in the area for over 30 minutes. Reuters also reported low-flying aircraft over the capital late Tuesday evening.
Israeli media confirmed the strikes, with Channel 14 stating that the Israeli air force targeted former Syrian military bases, destroying combat equipment in the process. Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz acknowledged the attacks, declaring them part of a “new policy” aimed at preventing southern Syria from turning into a military stronghold similar to southern Lebanon.
“The air force launched powerful attacks in southern Syria as part of the new policy we have set for demilitarizing the region,” Katz said. “Israel will not allow southern Syria to turn into a threat to its citizens.”
Ground Incursion in Quneitra and Daraa
In addition to the airstrikes, ground forces reportedly crossed into areas near Quneitra and Daraa. A source speaking to The New Arab detailed the movements of approximately 80 Israeli military vehicles into the region. The incursion saw some forces briefly stationed near Ain Al-Zebda and Ghadir Al-Bustan before withdrawing after two hours. Other units moved eastward toward Ain Dhakar, with forces temporarily positioned near the Al-Bakkar junction.
Despite these reports, some local activists disputed claims of a large-scale incursion. Muhammad Al-Hafri, an activist in southern Syria, stated that Israeli forces primarily targeted abandoned barracks and military outposts, rather than engaging in a direct occupation. Another source, former Assad regime soldier-turned-defector Ali Hamoud, described the attacks as “provocative” but downplayed the likelihood of a prolonged Israeli ground presence.
Israeli Justification & Regional Reactions
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) issued a statement claiming the strikes targeted military sites that “posed a threat to Israel.” The IDF asserted that weapons depots and command centers were among the facilities hit, stating that any military buildup in southern Syria would be met with force.
This escalation comes amid broader Israeli aggression and occupation of southern Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently reaffirmed his stance against “allowing” Syrian forces to establish a military presence south of Damascus. His comments were met with protests in southern Syria, where demonstrators condemned Israeli attacks and occupation and called for greater government reinforcements in the region.
Concerns Over Regional Stability
The latest Israeli strikes mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in Syria. While Damascus has yet to formally respond, the Syrian government has previously condemned Israeli military actions as violations of its sovereignty. Analysts warn that continued Israeli operations in southern Syria could further destabilize the region, especially as tensions between regional powers remain high.
