Syrian Official Fears Israeli-Backed Druze Attack in Southern Syria
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS Arabic by baba
A senior Syrian official told i24NEWS that armed Druze groups in Sweida province are preparing an attack against government forces, allegedly with Israeli backing. The Syrian government believes Israel will encourage and support such an operation, citing increased Israeli intelligence activity and alleged arms deliveries. This development occurs amid heightened tensions in the Druze-majority province, a key security challenge for President Ahmad al-Shar'a.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Syrian official fears armed Druze groups in Sweida are preparing an attack with Israeli support.
- Damascus believes Israel will encourage and back a potential operation by Druze groups.
- Increased Israeli aerial intelligence activity and alleged arms deliveries are cited.
- Druze figures have publicly announced potential operations to reclaim villages.
- The situation heightens security challenges for President Ahmad al-Shar'a's government.
A senior Syrian government official has expressed concerns to i24NEWS that armed Druze groups in southern Syria are preparing to launch an attack against government forces, with alleged support from Israel. The official, speaking from Damascus, indicated that these groups in the Sweida province are poised for an operation, and the Syrian government believes Israel will encourage and back such a move. This comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding Sweida, a province predominantly inhabited by Druze people and a significant security challenge for President Ahmad al-Shar'a's administration. Information from the Sweida region suggests armed groups may be preparing an offensive against Syrian government forces, and an increased presence of these groups on contact lines is raising fears in Damascus of renewed fighting in the south. Druze figures in the province have recently stated publicly that an operation to reclaim Druze villages may commence soon. The Syrian government estimates that any operation by Druze forces, if it occurs, would receive support and encouragement from Israel. The official also claimed that Israeli aerial intelligence activity over Sweida and surrounding areas has intensified, along with increased reconnaissance flights over Damascus and southern Syria. He further alleged that an Israeli helicopter landed in the region and delivered significant quantities of weapons and ammunition.
