'Israeli' forces enter Syrian towns, set checkpoints
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- 'Israeli' troops entered parts of Quneitra and Daraa this week, setting up checkpoints and searching civilians.
- Syria accused 'Israel' of occupation and intimidation as military activity continues in the south.
- Negotiations remain deadlocked over territory seized following Bashar al-Assad's ouster.
'Israeli' forces entered parts of southern Syria this week, establishing temporary checkpoints, stopping vehicles, and searching civilians in Quneitra and Daraa provinces, according to Syrian state media.
Syria's state-run SANA news agency reported that 'Israeli' military units moved along the road linking Saida al-Golan and Al-Basali Farm in Quneitra province, where residents were reportedly stopped and searched for several hours.
In a separate operation, troops established a checkpoint at the entrance to the town of Maariya in the Yarmouk Basin area of western Daraa. Private vehicles, public transportation, and residents were inspected before the forces later withdrew.
Syrian authorities described the operations as acts of occupation and intimidation.
Tensions persist as negotiations stall
The latest military activity comes as Syria and 'Israel' remain at odds over territory seized by 'Israeli' forces following the fall of Bashar al-Assad on Dec. 8, 2024.
Multiple rounds of US-mediated talks have taken place in Paris since Assad's ouster. In January, the two sides agreed to establish a communication mechanism aimed at sharing intelligence and coordinating de-escalation efforts.
However, reports from 'Israeli' media indicate that the government does not intend to withdraw from the territory captured in December without a broader peace agreement.
Among 'Israel's' reported demands are the full demilitarization of southern Syria and the right to maintain permanent military outposts on Syria's Jabal al-Sheikh, also known as Mount Hermon.
Military presence expands after Assad's ouster
'Israeli' forces first entered Syrian territory in December 2024 following Assad's fall, later expanding their presence across approximately 400 square kilometers.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously described the deployment as a "temporary defensive position."
Defense Minister Israel Katz has said the military would continue operating in parts of Syria due to security concerns and has called for a demilitarized zone south of Damascus.
Earlier this month, an 'Israeli' military bulldozer entered the village of Al-Rafid in Quneitra's countryside, where it reportedly cleared and bulldozed agricultural land.
The latest incursions highlight the continued volatility in southern Syria as diplomatic efforts between Damascus and Tel Aviv struggle to produce a breakthrough.
