Deadly Blast Targets Syrian Government Forces in Daraa Amid Rising Tensions in Southern Syria
DARAA, Syria (North Press) – At least six Syrian government soldiers were killed and five others injured on Monday when a military vehicle was targeted with an improvised explosive device (IED) in the countryside of Daraa, southern Syria.
A local armed group member told North Press that the explosion occurred on the road between Mahja and Izraa, north of Daraa, when unknown assailants planted an IED targeting the vehicle.
Following the attack, security forces imposed a heavy presence in the area, with ambulances arriving to transport the injured and deceased to the military hospital in al-Sanamayn.
The same source noted that five tanks and over 100 soldiers equipped with heavy machine guns were deployed to the town square in Qita, north of Daraa, on Monday morning. These reinforcements are believed to bolster nearby military checkpoints in anticipation of further attacks by local armed groups.
Escalation in Violence
The incident is the latest in a series of violent events that have heightened tensions in Daraa over the past two days. Multiple government military outposts in rural Daraa have been attacked by unidentified assailants, prompting widespread concerns about security in the region.
In response, government forces have strengthened their presence in Daraa city, including fortifying positions and deploying reinforcements in key areas.
A Region in Turmoil
Daraa has been a hotspot for unrest since the beginning of Syria’s conflict in 2011, serving as the cradle of the country’s uprising. While a Russian-brokered reconciliation deal in 2018 brought the region back under nominal government control, violence has persisted.
Armed groups, some with local ties, continue to operate, carrying out sporadic attacks against government forces and infrastructure. Local residents also frequently express discontent with security measures and living conditions.
Humanitarian Concerns
The ongoing violence in Daraa exacerbates the already dire humanitarian situation in southern Syria. Civilians are often caught in the crossfire, facing displacement and restricted access to basic services.
As the situation develops, analysts warn of further escalations if no effective measures are taken to address the root causes of the conflict, including governance, security, and economic instability.