Damascus, Syria – Israeli military forces renewed their incursion into southern Syria on Saturday, a day after a deadly incident in the town of Beit Jinn, located in the Damascus countryside. The renewed activity raises concerns amidst already heightened tensions in the region.
Local sources reported the movement of Israeli military vehicles in the vicinity of Beit Jinn. Syrian authorities corroborated these reports. According to the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), a patrol belonging to the “occupation forces,” consisting of four-wheel drive vehicles and Humvees, advanced south of the village of Ruwayhinah and north of the village of Zubaydah al-Gharbiyah in the southern Quneitra countryside. The report also indicated the presence of tanks positioned on the road connecting the two villages.
This incursion comes despite widespread condemnation of Friday’s incident in Beit Jinn. Initial reports indicate that 13 people were killed and dozens injured following clashes between residents and an Israeli patrol. The Israeli military claimed that six of its soldiers were injured during the confrontation.
The Israeli military has stated that its operations are part of “Operation Arrow of Bashan,” an initiative launched following the fall of the regime of Bashar al-Assad in December of 2024. The operation purportedly targets military sites throughout Syria and aims to secure strategic locations, including Mount Hermon, as well as to maintain control over a buffer zone.
The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned the Israeli actions in Beit Jinn, describing them as a “full-fledged war crime.” Damascus has called on the UN Security Council, the United Nations, and the Arab League to take immediate action to halt what it describes as “the occupation’s aggression and violations.” They further demanded measures to ensure respect for Syria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to international law and the UN Charter.
Despite claims that the current Syrian government poses no threat to Tel Aviv, Israeli forces have repeatedly entered southern Syria, conducting airstrikes that have resulted in civilian casualties and the destruction of military sites, equipment, and weapons. Many Syrians believe that the continued Israeli incursions undermine stability and hinder government efforts to attract investment and improve the economic situation. The ongoing conflict and instability further complicate efforts to rebuild and recover from years of conflict.
