Syrian Official Fears Druze Offensive With Israeli Support
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS French by baba
A senior Syrian official revealed Damascus's apprehension regarding an impending offensive by Druze armed groups in the southern province of Soueïda, potentially with Israeli backing. The official cited increased armed group activity and public discussions by Druze leaders about retaking villages. Syrian authorities fear a renewed outbreak of fighting, with Damascus anticipating Israeli encouragement and support for such an operation.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Syria's government fears an imminent Druze offensive in Soueïda province, possibly backed by Israel.
- The province of Soueïda is a major security challenge for President Ahmad al-Charaa's government.
- Druze leaders have publicly discussed retaking Druze villages in the region.
- Syrian officials report increased Israeli reconnaissance flights over southern Syria.
- An Israeli helicopter allegedly delivered weapons and ammunition to the province.
A senior Syrian official has expressed Damascus's fears of an imminent offensive by Druze armed groups against government forces in the southern province of Soueïda. The official told i24NEWS that the operation could launch within days and might receive support from Israel. These concerns arise as the province, predominantly populated by Druze, presents a significant security challenge for President Ahmad al-Charaa's government. Reports from Soueïda indicate an increased presence of armed groups near front lines, and several Druze figures in the region have publicly discussed the possibility of an operation to retake Druze villages. The Syrian authorities are worried about a resurgence of clashes in the south. The official stated that Damascus expects Israel to encourage and support a potential offensive, citing intensified Israeli reconnaissance flights over Soueïda and surrounding areas, as well as Damascus and southern Syria. He also claimed an Israeli helicopter landed in the province to deliver significant quantities of weapons and ammunition.
