Israeli Forces in Syria Prepare for Potential October 7-Style Scenario — Syria Denies Reports of Israeli Military Presence Near Damascus

Damascus – Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Official Syrian sources on Wednesday denied circulating reports claiming that an Israeli tank and a military checkpoint had been spotted in the city of Qatana, located south of the capital, Damascus.

The Media Relations Office in the Rif Dimashq Governorate stated that the information shared on some social media platforms and news outlets was “completely unfounded.” The statement emphasized that Qatana is under full Syrian sovereignty, with Syrian Army units stationed throughout the area, which is closely monitored by security and military agencies.

The office called on media outlets to maintain professionalism and accuracy when reporting, urging them not to spread unverified or misleading narratives that may undermine national sovereignty. It also noted that legal action may be taken against those responsible for disseminating such claims.

Background on the Reports and Israeli Movements in Southern Syria

Earlier in the day, several social media accounts had alleged that Israeli forces moved into Qatana, deploying a tank and three armored vehicles, and reportedly establishing a military checkpoint near the city’s outskirts, approximately 20 kilometers from Damascus. Additional claims mentioned a limited Israeli incursion near Qalaat Jandal in the Mount Hermon area.

These reports emerged amid growing tensions along the Syrian-Israeli border, following a report published Tuesday by the Israeli news outlet Walla, which indicated that the Israeli military is preparing for a potential infiltration from Syria—a scenario likened to the October 7 attack. The report mentioned concerns that armed groups, including Bedouin clans or jihadist factions, could attempt to infiltrate and target residential areas in the Golan Heights.

Separately, Israeli Army Spokesperson Avichay Adraee confirmed that on Tuesday night, forces from Division 210, in coordination with Unit 504, carried out a security operation in southern Syria. During the operation, several suspected arms dealers were arrested and interrogated.

Read also: National Committee Concludes Coastal Events Investigation, Submits Final Report