Israel’s military is considering expanding its operations deeper into Syria, with soldiers and commanders reportedly discussing a possible advance towards Damascus, according to Israeli news site Walla.
Walla cited an Israeli military source as saying the army views extending its operations to additional Syrian villages and the areas between them as necessary to counter what it describes as “hostile intentions” towards Israel.
The source said deeper incursions would strengthen Israel’s ability to detect and pursue potential threats before they reach the border.
A senior Israeli officer said military operations were continuing in Syria at a high tempo, indicating an expansion of Israeli activity inside the country.
“A large number of soldiers expressed a desire to advance towards Damascus,” the officer was quoted as saying.
The possibility of “invading the Syrian capital” was also reportedly raised during a visit by the Israeli military’s chief of staff around two weeks ago. The report did not indicate that a formal decision had been made or that such an operation was imminent.
The disclosures come as Israeli forces continue military incursions in Syria, particularly across southern areas bordering the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.
Israeli troops have recently conducted raids and other operations in parts of the Damascus countryside, Quneitra and Daraa, while strikes have also been reported against Syrian territory.
Israel says its operations are intended to prevent threats from emerging near its borders. However, the United Nations has warned that Israeli military activity inside Syria could violate international law.
The UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria has documented incursions, raids and the detention of civilians during Israeli operations.
