Syrian government fears Israeli backed Druze attacks in Suwayda

A Syrian government official expressed Damascus deep concerns over the possibility that armed Druze factions in Suwayda governorate might launch military attacks against government forces in the coming days, amid indicators of Tel Aviv encouragement and support for these moves. The official pointed out during statements to the Israeli newspaper Jerusalem Post that field reports indicate armed groups are preparing to carry out offensive operations against Syrian military units, explaining that combat mobilizations near contact lines have raised growing fears about the outbreak of a new round of confrontations in the south of the country. The source noted that local Druze leaders recently revealed publicly the approaching launch of a battle to restore Druze villages, amid official estimates indicating that any potential military action will receive direct Israeli support and backing. The official confirmed that Israeli reconnaissance flights have intensified over Suwayda and neighboring areas in addition to monitoring intensive flights over the capital and the south of the country, while speaking at the same time about the landing of an Israeli military helicopter inside the governorate to unload huge shipments of weapons and ammunition.