A security source told the state-run channel al-Ikhbariyah Syria that there is no Israeli military presence in Daraa or Quneitra.
The source stated, Wednesday, 30 July, that the parties promoting these rumors and speaking of “displacement” of residents in southern Syria are attempting to undermine government efforts to restore stability in As-Suwayda and ensure the return of residents to their homes.
Social media accounts circulated yesterday rumors of Israeli occupation forces deploying in Daraa and Quneitra governorates.
The source described these campaigns as “deliberate incitement and misleading,” claiming they “aim to steer Syrian public opinion toward lies and rumors that target the country’s security and stability.”
On 23 July, the Media Relations Office in the Damascus suburb Governorate also denied what was circulated on social media and by various media outlets about sightings of an Israeli tank and a military checkpoint in Qatana, south of Damascus.
The office confirmed that this news is completely false and bears no relation to reality, stressing that Qatana is under full Syrian sovereignty, with Syrian army checkpoints spread throughout the city, and it is under close surveillance by military and security agencies.
In a statement viewed by Enab Baladi, the office urged all media outlets to verify the accuracy and professionalism of their reports and not to fall into the trap of rumors or adopt “suspicious” narratives. The office emphasized that it reserves its legal right to pursue anyone promoting “such lies” that affect national sovereignty.
Arrest Campaign
On 22 July, Israel announced the arrest of Syrians it claimed were arms dealers in southern Syria, following intelligence-led investigations.
Avichay Adraee, the Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israeli army, stated that Division 210, along with Unit 504, completed a military operation during which several arms dealers operating in southern Syria were arrested and interrogated during the night hours.
He added that the arrests followed intelligence indicators about several suspects who were allegedly transferring various types of weapons.
According to Adraee, the Israeli army confiscated weapons found in the area during its military activity inside Syria.
Israel has intensified its arrest campaigns in recent days, targeting Syrians in Quneitra, claiming they are affiliated with Iran-backed militias, saying such actions are necessary for its national security.
On 7 July, Israel announced a so-called “special operation” in the Tell Kodna area of Daraa, southern Syria, during which it arrested a cell allegedly working for the Iranian Quds Force.
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