IOF launching new missions inside southern Syria

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Al Mayadeen
Today 15:26

The IOF's Spearhead Brigade has been redeployed under the 210th Division, with Israeli forces alleging the discovery of weapons during recent operations in southern Syria.

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Israeli occupation forces' armored vehicles block a road leading to the town of Syria, on January 5, 2025. (AP)

The Israeli occupation's military announced that the reserve “Spearhead" Brigade (Unit 55) has been mobilized once again in recent months and is currently operating in southern Syria under the command of the 210th Division.

An Israeli occupation army spokesperson said the forces are conducting “pre-emptive security missions inside Syria,” confirming that division units remain deployed along the border area.

According to the military, the Spearhead Brigade recently completed what it called a sweep-and-search operation in southern Syrian territory, alleging that troops uncovered weapons, including remnants of rockets and RPGs.

Netanyahu touts 'immense importance' of troops in occupied Syria

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has described the "Israeli military presence in Syria as "strategically critical", telling troops stationed in occupied Syrian territory that their role is of “immense importance.”

During a visit to an IOF position overlooking the occupied Golan Heights, Netanyahu said, “We attach immense importance to our capability here, both defensive and offensive, safeguarding our Druze allies, and especially safeguarding Israel and its northern border opposite the Golan Heights.” He added that the mission could “develop at any moment,” but that the government was relying on the soldiers deployed in the area.

The PMO added that Netanyahu “met with active-duty and reserve soldiers, praised their actions during the war and their efforts to maintain security in the area, and answered their questions.”

Netanyahu’s tour was accompanied by senior political and military leadership, including Security Minister Israel Katz, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, IOF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, and Shin Bet head David Zini.

Also present were acting occupation Security Council chief Gil Reich, Israeli Ambassador to the US Yehiel Leiter, Northern Command leader Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo, Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories Maj. Gen. Ghassan Alian, and 210th Division Commander Brig. Gen. Yair Peli.