Israel expands military and intelligence presence in southern Syria

The Israeli military is increasing its security presence and intelligence operations in southern Syria, specifically targeting the Yarmouk Basin and the province of Deraa. Following a period of heightened activity in July, which saw approximately 50 violations, the beginning of August has seen a further escalation, including roughly 10 recorded aggressions in Deraa.

In the Wadi Al-Raqqad area within the buffer zone, Israeli forces have resumed road construction near the village of Maariya. This area is strategically critical as the valley feeds seven dams, including the El-Mantarah dam in Quneitra, which is reportedly under absolute Israeli control. Local sources report that military patrols are accompanied by engineers who oversee excavation work and inspect waterways. There are suspicions among residents that unidentified equipment is being installed near these dams.

Beyond physical incursions, reports indicate that Israel is utilizing local economic instability and the limited presence of Syria’s transitional authority to build influence. This includes conducting surveys and offering services such as well-drilling and material aid. Additionally, intelligence-gathering efforts involve recruiting local cells to compile databases on residents and identify locations of weapons. In northern Quneitra, surveillance has also increased through the installation of electro-optical cameras in the villages of Al-Samdaniya al-Gharbiya and Al-Samdaniya al-Sharqiya to monitor population movement and agricultural areas.