Israel resumes Sufa 53 military project in Syria's Quneitra

Israeli forces have resumed work on the ‘Sufa 53’ project in the southern Quneitra countryside, Syria. The operations involve digging, earthmoving, and constructing fortifications along the separation line with the occupied Golan Heights, specifically near the villages of al-Ashah and al-Rafid.

The project, which began in late 2022, includes the construction of an approximately 8-meter-wide military road supported by earthen embankments reaching heights of up to 5 meters. It also involves the creation of trenches, observation posts, and military installations. The project spans from the vicinity of Hadar in northern Quneitra through several towns, including Jabata al-Khashab, al-Hamidiyah, and al-Qahṭaniyah, extending south toward the tri-border area.

Local reports indicate that these military activities have caused significant damage to the landscape, affecting an estimated 12,000 dunams (approximately 12 square kilometers) of agricultural land and grazing areas. The construction has also altered natural water drainage patterns in the region, with some embankments causing damage to nearby properties during heavy rainfall.