Israel Shifts Focus to Air Operations in Syria Following Civilian Casualties
Israeli media reports indicate a strategic shift within Israeli security agencies, moving away from high-risk ground arrest operations in favor of increased reliance on air strikes in Syria. This change follows a violent incident in Beit Jann that reportedly left 13 civilians dead or injured.
According to Israeli Channel 13, security officials stated that the events in Beit Jann were not a planned ambush but a reaction from local residents responding to military activity. This development suggests a strategic pivot aimed at reducing risks to Israeli forces.
The announcement follows an Israeli military operation in Beit Jann early Friday, which Syrian sources claim resulted in civilian casualties, including women and children.
Syria TV reported that the shelling occurred after confrontations between locals and an Israeli army patrol that had entered Beit Jann to arrest three young men. The patrol subsequently withdrew to a nearby hill.
The Israeli army confirmed that operations were conducted by the 55th Reserve Brigade to apprehend wanted individuals, asserting that their forces returned fire after being attacked. The military reported injuries among its personnel, including two officers and a reserve fighter.
The violence prompted residents to flee to neighboring villages, with several injured individuals transported to Al-Muwasat University Hospital. Minister of Higher Education Marwan Al-Halabi confirmed that medical staff were prepared to assist the injured.
In the aftermath, Syria witnessed widespread protests following Friday prayers, with thousands gathering in urban centers to denounce the Israeli airstrikes in Beit Jann and call for national unity.
In addition to the Beit Jann incident, reports of Israeli incursions have surfaced across various fronts in Syria. Syrian media noted an Israeli force entering the Yarmouk Basin in Daraa, while SANA reported Israeli forces targeting civilians in Al-Hamidiyah, Quneitra, and obstructing their return from a local event.
