Experiences with the Israelis in Southern Syria: Interview with a Local

Since the fall of the Assad regime, Israel has launched incursions into parts of the southern Syrian provinces of Qunaytra and Deraa, ostensibly on the grounds of pre-empting threats to Israel’s security along the border with the Golan Heights. Israeli actions in southern Syria have included multiple instances of conducting inspections for weapons and questioning locals. Although Israel’s actions have generated some local anger, there is no major sustained insurgency against Israeli forces in Deraa and Qunaytra. Instead, armed clashes have been the exception.

Today’s interviewee is a resident of the locality of al-Rafid in Qunaytra on the border with the Golan Heights. Previously imprisoned for years by the Assad regime, he recently had interactions with Israeli forces in his local area. He discusses those experiences and how he views the Israeli presence more broadly. His responses may well come as a surprise.

Q: Can you describe how the Israelis entered and conducted their inspection?