Israel has escalated its military operations in southern Syria, conducting airstrikes on Syrian military facilities in the Daraa and Rif Dimashq Governorates. These strikes align with Israel’s recent declaration that it will not allow Syrian military assets south of Damascus, effectively designating the area as a “demilitarized zone.” Israel has also occupied parts of southern Syria, including the Quneitra and Daraa Governorates, and warned civilians against construction in the region.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the occupation will continue for the “foreseeable future,” emphasizing the prohibition of Syrian military presence south of Damascus. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) justified the attacks by claiming that any military assets in the area pose a threat to Israeli citizens. Defense Minister Israel Katz further described southern Syria as a “security zone,” vowing to retaliate against any Syrian military presence there.

The Syrian National Dialogue Conference condemned Israel’s actions and called for the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Casualties from the airstrikes are still being assessed, with at least two reported deaths. Israel’s policy in southern Syria raises questions about its long-term intentions, particularly given its historical hostility toward Syria and its occupation of the Golan Heights since 1967.

Despite the regime change in Syria and peace overtures from the new government, Israel has continued to view Syria as a threat, using this as justification for its military actions and territorial expansion. The U.S. has endorsed Israel’s actions as “defensive,” while Israel seeks to prevent southern Syria from becoming a contested region like southern Lebanon.