DAMASCUS COUNTRYSIDE – A tense situation unfolded in Beit Jinn, a town in the Damascus countryside, early Friday morning, resulting in casualties and escalating tensions between local residents and Israeli forces. The incident marks a significant departure from previous incursions, with reports of direct confrontation and casualties on both sides.
According to reports, the confrontation began when Israeli troops entered Beit Jinn, allegedly to conduct an arrest operation. Local residents, however, responded by confronting the soldiers, leading to a standoff that quickly turned violent. The Israeli military claims its forces were met with resistance, resulting in injuries to six officers and soldiers.
In response, the Israeli army launched a military operation, dubbed “Arrow of Bashan,” which it claims is a continuation of efforts initiated following the ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad last December. The operation reportedly involved artillery and missile strikes targeting locations within Beit Jinn, resulting in the death of 13 Syrians. The Israeli military asserts the operation aims to secure strategic locations, including Mount Hermon, and maintain control over a buffer zone.
While the Israeli military has conducted similar operations in the past, targeting individuals it deems “wanted” in areas bordering Syria, the Beit Jinn incident is notable for the reported injuries sustained by Israeli soldiers. This is being described by some in Israel as an “exceptional” event.
Details emerging from the incident suggest that a unit from the reserve paratrooper brigade (Brigade 55), under the command of Division 210, entered the town to apprehend three individuals allegedly affiliated with the Islamic Group. After reportedly arresting the individuals, the Israeli forces were allegedly attacked by armed elements, leading to an exchange of fire. The Israeli military responded with air strikes, tank fire, and drone attacks on multiple locations within the town.
Reports indicate that a Hummer vehicle belonging to the Israeli forces was attacked, resulting in injuries to the soldiers inside and rendering the vehicle unusable. The vehicle was reportedly abandoned and subsequently targeted by Israeli forces. Following the clashes, Israeli forces reportedly withdrew to the outskirts of Beit Jinn, evacuating the injured by helicopter to hospitals in Israel.
The incident in Beit Jinn underscores the volatile security situation in the region and the potential for further escalation. The Israeli military has yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the specific objectives of the operation. DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
