Full Breakdown
Growing Israeli Military Presence in Southern Syria
12/9/2025, 10:57:13 PM
Escalation of Military Operations
On December 9, 2024, following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Israeli military forces entered the southern Syrian province of Quneitra. This marked the beginning of a significant increase in Israeli military operations in the region, with reports indicating that Israel has conducted over 600 air, drone, and artillery attacks across Syria in the past year, averaging nearly two attacks daily. The majority of these operations have targeted military infrastructure, including airports and air defense systems, particularly in the southern governorates of Quneitra, Deraa, and Damascus.
Impact on Local Residents
Local residents, such as Abu Ibrahim, have expressed their disillusionment with the Israeli presence, stating that they have traded one form of oppression for another. Israeli soldiers have established checkpoints and conducted night-time raids, leading to a climate of fear among the population. Ibrahim's home was demolished to make way for an Israeli military base, and he recounted a conversation with an Israeli soldier who dismissed his concerns about the destruction, highlighting the stark contrast between the promises of protection and the reality of occupation.
Daily Life Under Occupation
Residents now face stringent controls over their daily lives. They require permits from Israeli authorities for gatherings and must notify them in advance for municipal services. The Israeli military has also conducted surveys to assess local needs, distributing aid while simultaneously enforcing military control. Yassin al-Hamad, a local official, described how even minor activities require coordination with Israeli forces, underscoring the pervasive nature of the occupation.
Syrian Government's Response
In response to the occupation, the Syrian government, now led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, has sought to negotiate with Israel under U.S. mediation, aiming for a non-aggression pact and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, these negotiations have yielded little progress. The Syrian government has also appealed to the international community to address what it describes as violations of its sovereignty, particularly referencing the 1974 UN resolution that established a buffer zone between Syrian and Israeli forces.
International Reactions and Criticism
Israel's military actions have drawn widespread condemnation from the international community, including the United Nations and several Arab nations, which view these operations as breaches of international law. Despite this, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that Israeli forces will remain in the area indefinitely to protect its citizens and prevent hostile entities from gaining a foothold near the border.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I told him, ‘When Bashar al-Assad destroyed things, it was during war. But you entered claiming peace,” — Abu Ibrahim, Local Resident
- “If something happens – even a small thing – a vehicle comes to your house. Any issue becomes something. You can’t leave the house freely,” — Yassin al-Hamad, Local Official
- “We’re living in terror,” said Ibrahim.” — Abu Ibrahim, Local Resident
Conclusion
The situation in southern Syria remains tense as Israeli military operations continue to escalate, leading to significant changes in the lives of local residents and ongoing diplomatic efforts by the Syrian government. The long-term implications of this military presence and the potential for further conflict remain uncertain.
