Quneitra: The Israeli army fired five mortar rounds on Friday toward the outskirts of a dam in a rural area of Quneitra, southwestern Syria, as reported by local media. The incident marks another instance of rising tensions in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, Al-Ikhbariyag reported that the "Israeli occupation forces shelled the outskirts of Mantara Dam in central Quneitra with five mortar rounds." The immediate consequences of the shelling remain unclear, as the outcome was not specified in the report.

The attack occurred despite Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa's earlier comments indicating that talks with Israel were still ongoing, albeit with difficulties. These challenges arise from Israel's insistence on maintaining a presence in Syrian territory, creating obstacles in negotiations.

In recent months, Israeli operations in southern Syria have increased significantly, with frequent reports of raids, home searches, checkpoint installations, and arrests of civilians, including children and shepherds. This escalation follows the ouster of Bashar Al-Assad's regime on December 8, 2024, after which Israel declared the 1974 disengagement agreement null and void, moving into the Syrian buffer zone.

Despite the new Syrian administration not issuing threats against Israel, the Israeli military has continued its airstrikes in Syria. These operations have resulted in civilian casualties and the destruction of military sites, vehicles, and ammunition.