Israeli forces fire Into Syria's Quneitra, tensions rise in south

Israeli military forces targeted the southern Syrian countryside of Quneitra with machine-gun fire on Friday, according to reports from official Syrian media. The state broadcaster Al-Ikhbariya stated the fire originated from an Israeli position and was directed toward areas within the Quneitra province. No casualties were immediately reported from the incident.

Pattern of Escalating Military Activity

This event is part of a broader pattern of intensified Israeli operations in southern Syria in recent weeks. Local reports detail near-daily incursions by Israeli forces into Quneitra province, involving actions such as arrests, the establishment of checkpoints, and the clearing of forested areas. These activities have reportedly stoked significant local anger and heightened tensions along the demarcation line.

Background of Violations and Occupation

The longstanding conflict in the region entered a new phase following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime in late 2024. Israel subsequently expanded its control in the area by seizing the demilitarized buffer zone, a move that violated the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement between Israel and Syria. This expansion consolidated Israel's occupation of the Syrian Golan Heights, a status not recognized by the United Nations or the international community, and which Türkiye has consistently opposed.

Regional Stability Concerns

Israeli forces have repeatedly entered Syrian territory and conducted airstrikes over the years, actions they claim target Iranian-linked forces. These operations have resulted in civilian casualties and the destruction of Syrian military infrastructure. The latest ground fire incident underscores the ongoing volatility and the risk of further escalation in a region critical to Türkiye's national security interests.