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IDF launches defensive operations in southern Syria

Israeli forces targeted weapons caches and infrastructure near the Golan Heights.

IDF in Syria
The IDF Paratroopers Brigade operating in southern Syria in early April 2025. Credit: IDF.

Israeli paratroopers have carried out a series of operations in southern Syria aimed at neutralizing threats near the Israel-Syria border, the Israel Defense Forces said on Saturday.

The Paratroopers Brigade, operating under the 210th Division, dismantled decommissioned Syrian military hardware, including tanks, armored vehicles and artillery abandoned by the former Syrian regime. During the operation, troops also seized dozens of rockets, mortars and other weapons.

The IDF said these efforts are part of a broader strategy to prevent hostile forces from establishing a foothold close to Israeli territory, particularly in the volatile region bordering the Golan Heights. Military officials emphasized that such measures are intended to maintain regional stability and protect local communities.

In a related incident last week, IDF forces clashed with armed terrorists in the southern Syrian town of Tasil.

The day before, Israeli aircraft struck multiple sites across Syria, targeting military infrastructure at the Hama airfield and the T-4 base. The airstrikes reportedly damaged radar installations, fuel storage facilities and runways. Additional bombing raids were carried out near Damascus, including an attack on the Barzeh research facility located on the outskirts of the capital.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to defending its borders, warning that any attempt by hostile forces to entrench themselves in Syria would be met with decisive action.

“These operations send a clear message that Israel will not allow the northern front to become a staging ground for attacks against our citizens,” he said.

The series of strikes and raids mark an escalation in Israel’s military posture in response to increasing regional threats.

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