Clashes in Southern Syria’s Daraa Erupt Between Military Operations Directorate and Former Regime Loyalists
DARAA, Syria (North Press) – Intense clashes broke out on Saturday between the Military Operations Directorate and remnants of the former regime in the northern countryside of Daraa, southern Syria.
The confrontation, centered in the city of Al-Sanamayn, involved the Southern Operations Command of the Directorate and a group led by Mohsen al-Haymad, a former ally of the previous regime’s Military Security Branch.
Escalation in Al-Sanamayn
Local sources reported that the clashes began when regime remnants initiated gunfire early Saturday morning, targeting local armed groups from Al-Sanamayn. The ensuing firefight drew in forces from the Military Operations Directorate, escalating into what witnesses described as “fierce” engagements.
Light and medium weaponry, including rocket-propelled grenades, were used during the clashes, with heavy exchanges reported in residential areas. Authorities have urged civilians in Al-Sanamayn to remain indoors to ensure their safety.
Background of the Conflict
The group led by Mohsen al-Haymad is one of many remnants of the former regime still operating in Daraa. Following the 2018 reconciliation agreements, numerous local armed groups—composed of Daraa residents—collaborated with the regime, participating in military operations against opposition forces.
Despite these agreements, tensions have persisted in Daraa, a province that has remained a hotspot for unrest. Armed groups with ties to the former regime have continued to operate, often clashing with local factions and now the Military Operations Directorate.
Civilian Impact
Residents of Al-Sanamayn expressed concern over the escalating violence. “The fighting is happening very close to our homes. We’ve been told to stay inside, but the situation is terrifying,” said one local resident who spoke on condition of anonymity.
Civilians in the area fear further violence as the Military Operations Directorate intensifies its campaign to dismantle remnants of the former regime.
Strategic Implications
The clashes highlight ongoing efforts by the Military Operations Directorate to consolidate control and eliminate threats posed by regime-affiliated groups in southern Syria. Daraa, often referred to as the cradle of the Syrian uprising, remains a strategically significant region due to its proximity to the Jordanian border and its symbolic importance.
Analysts believe that the persistent instability in Daraa underscores the challenges of achieving long-term peace and security in post-conflict Syria. The province’s fractured dynamics, involving local factions, regime loyalists, and external influences, make it a microcosm of the broader Syrian conflict.
Looking Forward
As of now, the Military Operations Directorate has not issued an official statement on the casualties or the status of the operation in Al-Sanamayn. The clashes are expected to continue as the Directorate seeks to neutralize regime-affiliated groups in the area.
Observers fear that the violence could spill over into other parts of Daraa, further destabilizing the region and complicating reconciliation efforts. For now, the situation in Al-Sanamayn remains tense, with residents anxiously awaiting the outcome of the ongoing operation.