Damascus, Syria — In a significant move aimed at stabilizing the increasingly volatile situation in southern Syria, the Syrian presidency has announced the deployment of new military forces to quell the ongoing clashes in the region. This decision comes amid intensifying tensions and heavy confrontations between various factions, with both Syrian government forces and opposition groups vying for control in a region that has seen growing instability since the onset of the Syrian civil war.

Background to the South Syrian Clashes

The southern region of Syria, including the provinces of Daraa and Quneitra, has been a hotbed of conflict for years. The area, which borders Jordan and Israel, has seen recurring clashes between the Syrian military, opposition factions, and local militia groups. Although a ceasefire agreement was brokered by Russia in 2018, guaranteeing a return of government control over much of the area, the peace has been fragile, with periodic flare-ups of violence.

The primary cause of the recent escalation is the continued presence of rebel factions and local insurgents who reject the government’s authority. In addition, there have been growing frustrations among the local population due to high unemployment, a lack of basic services, and the pervasive influence of Iran-backed militias. These factors have created a volatile mix, making the region ripe for further clashes and instability.

The Presidential Decision to Deploy Forces

On Monday, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad issued a statement confirming the dispatch of additional military personnel to the southern provinces, specifically targeting areas where armed groups and protesters have been clashing with Syrian forces. The deployment is being described as a “special operation” to restore order, protect civilian infrastructure, and ensure the safe return of displaced citizens.

In his address, President Assad emphasized that the government’s priority is to maintain sovereignty and prevent foreign intervention, particularly from Israel and Western-backed forces. “We will not allow foreign-backed terrorism or separatist movements to destabilize our country. Our forces are committed to protecting every inch of Syrian territory,” he asserted.

Sources within the Syrian military confirmed that units from the elite Tiger Forces, known for their effectiveness in handling complex combat scenarios, would be sent to southern Syria. These forces, alongside other specialized units, are expected to engage in a mix of ground operations and airstrikes aimed at neutralizing rebel strongholds.

Regional and International Reactions

The decision to send new forces into southern Syria has garnered mixed reactions both regionally and internationally. Iran, a key ally of the Assad government, has expressed full support for the move, reiterating its commitment to maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity. Hezbollah, which has operated in southern Syria as part of its broader mission in the region, also praised the decision, viewing it as a necessary step to counter Israeli influence and thwart any attempts to carve out autonomous regions in Syria.

Conversely, Israel has voiced concerns about the increased military presence near its border, with officials warning that they will take action if any threats emerge from the Syrian side. Israel has long been wary of Iranian-backed forces operating in Syria, especially in the southern regions, where proximity to the Golan Heights makes it a sensitive area. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated, “We will continue to monitor developments and respond accordingly to ensure our security.”

Meanwhile, the United States has expressed reservations about the Syrian government’s heavy-handed approach, particularly in regard to civilian casualties. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for restraint and urged the Syrian government to prioritize dialogue with local populations instead of using force. “The use of military force should not be the first option, especially in an area where innocent lives are at risk,” Blinken said during a press briefing in Washington.

Domestic Impact and Civilian Concerns

The prospect of additional military operations in southern Syria raises serious concerns for the civilian population, who have borne the brunt of the ongoing conflict. Hundreds of thousands of people in Daraa and Quneitra have already been displaced by previous fighting, and the threat of renewed clashes could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.

International aid organizations have called for the protection of civilians, with the United Nations issuing a statement urging all parties to respect international law and ensure the safe passage of humanitarian aid. Local residents have also expressed fears that the deployment of more military forces could lead to further casualties and displacement.

“Every time there is a military operation, it’s the people who suffer the most,” said Fadi, a local resident from Daraa. “We just want peace and stability so that we can rebuild our lives.”

A Complicated Path Forward

While the Syrian presidency’s move to send new forces to the south may temporarily stabilize the region, it is unlikely to resolve the underlying political and social issues that continue to fuel unrest. Southern Syria has become a symbol of the broader struggle between the Assad regime’s attempts to reassert control and the desire for greater autonomy and political reform from various opposition groups and local communities.

As the conflict in Syria enters its twelfth year, the situation in the south highlights the difficulty of achieving lasting peace. The presence of external actors, the complex network of alliances, and the deep-seated grievances of local populations suggest that the path forward will require more than just military force — it will demand genuine political engagement and a broader vision for Syria’s future.