On August 27, 2025, Israel conducted a series of airstrikes targeting former army barracks in Kiswah, located in the southwestern Damascus countryside. This incident marked the second such attack within a 24-hour period and occurred as Syria and Israel are engaged in security discussions aimed at de-escalating regional tensions.
The Kiswah area, along with Jabal Manea, has historically served as a military outpost and was utilized by pro-Iranian militias during the Assad era. The timing of these strikes, coinciding with diplomatic efforts, underscores the volatile geopolitical landscape of the Middle East.
Syrian state media reported that at least six Syrian soldiers were killed in a previous Israeli strike in the same vicinity on August 26, 2025. The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the recent attacks, labeling them a grave violation of international law and a breach of Syria's sovereignty, asserting that these actions undermine regional security and stability. Some reports indicated a higher death toll, with eight soldiers killed in the strikes.
Israel has intensified its military operations in southern Syria. While the Israeli military has not issued an official comment on the specific incidents, Defense Minister Israel Katz previously stated that Israeli forces would maintain an indefinite presence in necessary security zones to protect settlements from threats emanating from the Syrian side, a stance influenced by recent regional conflicts.
These events raise critical questions about the implications for the ongoing security dialogues between Syria and Israel. The escalating military activities highlight the delicate balance of power and persistent security challenges characterizing the region, posing significant questions about the future trajectory of international relations and regional stability.