IOF bolster occupation positions in southern Syria, pave roads
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Israeli occupation forces are bolstering their presence in southern Syria as they implement a series of measures and seize numerous new areas.
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An Israeli Air Force Black Hawk helicopter flies over Mount Hermon near the so-called Alpha Line that separates the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights from the remainder of Syria, viewed from the town of Majdal Shams, Tuesday, December 17, 2024. (AP)
The Israeli occupation has intensified its efforts to solidify its presence in southern Syria, implementing a series of military measures across the region and taking control over several key infrastructures in the area.
According to Al Mayadeen's correspondent, Israeli occupation forces are paving roads connecting 13 newly established military positions in the rural areas of Damascus, Quneitra, and western Daraa governorates. These positions are being fortified with concrete barriers and surveillance cameras, consolidating Israeli control over strategic locations.
The occupation has also seized control of six key water reservoirs in southern Syria, the latest being al-Mantra Dam in Quneitra. Israeli forces have reportedly erected soil barriers around the dam, preventing locals from accessing the area. This move poses a significant threat to water security in southern Syria and parts of Damascus.
Local sources reported that for the first time, Israeli forces conducted patrols using armored vehicles on newly occupied hills in the Mount Hermon region, which overlook areas in Lebanon's Nabatieh district. Additionally, Israeli reinforcements were deployed to the al-Jazeera barracks in the village of Ma'riah, located in Daraa near the Syrian-Jordanian border. The roads leading to the barracks have been paved, and high concrete barriers have been installed.
Further occupation of Syria
The Israeli occupation has taken advantage of the recent political shift in Syria, marked by the armed opposition's rise to power and the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad's government. Exploiting the instability, the occupation has intensified its aggression by targeting Syria's military infrastructure, destroying vital facilities and occupying an estimated 600 square kilometers of southern Syrian territory.
This comes after Israeli media reported that the Israeli military is preparing for an extended presence in Syria.
According to Walla, "Despite pressure from European parties on Israel, political leaders have instructed the Israeli army to brace for a prolonged stay in Syrian territory."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously instructed the military to prepare to remain in the Syrian Mount Hermon area and the UN-patrolled buffer zone until at least the end of 2025, Israeli Army Radio reported.
In contrast, Syria's new leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, pledged that he would not allow the country to be used as a launchpad for attacks "against Israel or any other state."
Read more: IOF assault Syrian state buildings, establish 13 additional positions
