Israeli forces have intensified their incursions into southern Syria over the past 48 hours, with a series of airstrikes and raids targeting various areas in Quneitra province and the outskirts of Damascus. According to reports from Cairo News, Israeli forces fired several shells at the Tel al-Krom area, northwest of the town of Beit Jen in rural Damascus, hitting a farmer's vehicle and causing damage. The area is primarily used for agricultural purposes.

The Israeli airstrikes extended from the Golan Heights into the region north of the town of Koudna in the central sector of Quneitra. In a separate incident, Israeli forces conducted a raid in the village of Al-Asbah in the southern sector of the province, searching several homes and clashing with residents who attempted to prevent the forces from entering homes with women and children. The situation on the ground remains tense, with ongoing military activities.

A significant development in the region is the resumption of digging for the 'Sufa 53' project, a trench that Israel claims will stretch for approximately 70 kilometers. The trench is being excavated by Israeli engineering vehicles, which returned to Al-Asbah village to continue work on the project. According to sources, the digging began in 2022 but was expanded into Syrian territory.

The 'Sufa 53' trench is reportedly designed to run from the Al-Hadr area in southwestern rural Damascus, through Quneitra province, to the Yarmouk basin in western Daraa. Local sources in Quneitra provided details about the trench, stating that it is around 8 meters wide and 5 meters deep, with earthen barriers constructed on either side.

The renewed Israeli military presence and construction activities have raised concerns about the stability of the region. The Syrian government has not officially commented on the situation, but local residents and sources have reported ongoing military movements and equipment deployments.

The Israeli military actions in southern Syria have been met with international attention, with various countries monitoring the situation closely. The United Nations and other organizations have called for restraint and de-escalation in the region, emphasizing the need to avoid further conflict.

The situation in southern Syria remains volatile, with continued Israeli military activities and the ongoing construction of the 'Sufa 53' trench. The developments have significant implications for regional stability and security, with concerns about the potential for further escalation and conflict.

Key points

  • Israeli forces have resumed digging the 'Sufa 53' trench in southern Syria, a project aimed at bolstering their presence in the region.
  • The Israeli incursions have resulted in clashes with residents and damage to property in various areas.
  • The situation in southern Syria remains tense, with ongoing military activities and concerns about regional stability.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.