Secret Syrian Border Operation Led by Late Colonel Deksa Revealed

Two years after the death of Colonel Ahsan Deksa, commander of the 401st Brigade, in combat in northern Gaza, details have emerged about a covert operation he led on the Syrian border. Codenamed "Gadid Tamarim" (Date Palm Dressing), the campaign involved a series of strikes aimed at pushing Syrian military infrastructure away from Israel's border during a period of relative quiet. Officers who served with Deksa and his widow, Huda, described him as a commander who refused to wait for threats to materialize, was concerned about the Druze community in Syria, and possessed a significant operational legacy.

Deksa's colleagues noted his forward-thinking approach, stating he saw potential future threats years in advance. He viewed the relative calm on the Syrian border not as a reason to lower vigilance, but as an opportunity to act before threats became tangible. The operation, which began in November 2021 with strikes on outposts and escalated in August 2023 with a deep strike on the Migrana outpost, was based on the principle of acting against infrastructure during its establishment phase, rather than waiting for it to become an active threat.

During this time, Syrian forces had crossed into the demilitarized zone and established tents and structures near the Israeli border, creating a complex reality in the area known as the "Barrel Line." Deksa believed this presence was unacceptable, understanding that even a weakened Syrian regime could shift the situation, turning seemingly minor outposts into future launchpads for attacks on Israel. His widow, Huda Deksa, recalled his strategic mind, stating, "He always thought at least ten steps ahead." Major Sh', who served under Deksa, remembered him personally surveying the border to identify encroaching Syrian positions, emphasizing that responsibility extended beyond identifying immediate threats.

The operation progressed from targeting outposts in the demilitarized zone to striking positions deeper within Syrian territory. The goal was to push Syrian forces back and prevent them from establishing infrastructure that could be used by other hostile elements, including Hezbollah. Lieutenant Colonel S', deputy commander of the Golan Brigade, stated the campaign aimed to create a significant, clear security zone for Israeli forces and enhance readiness for escalation.

Beyond military strategy, Deksa harbored a deep concern for the Druze community in Syria, particularly in Sweida. His connection to his Druze roots and Israel influenced his understanding of the complexities beyond the border. "He was always worried about the situation of the Druze there," said Lieutenant Colonel S'. His widow noted that this concern was evident even at home, and in retrospect, after the events in Sweida in July 2025, his foresight became clearer. Those who knew Deksa also remember his humanity, with Major A' recalling a welcoming first meeting that included personal conversation and a shared treat, despite difficult operational circumstances.

Deksa's legacy, two years after his death, is defined by his operational philosophy: proactively identifying and neutralizing distant threats rather than merely reacting to immediate dangers. His widow summarized his essence as, "He always tried to understand what would happen next, and what needed to be done today to be ready for tomorrow." His approach underscored the belief that defense begins long before the enemy reaches the border.