Syria Withdraws Heavy Weapons from the South

Redeployment in the South

A Syrian military source told AFP that government forces began withdrawing their heavy weapons from southern Syria two months ago, in areas that Israel has long demanded be demilitarized under old understandings. The source, who requested anonymity, explained that the move “comes within the context of a military redeployment following recent tensions in Sweida province.”

Tensions and Israeli Escalation

The predominantly Druze province witnessed widespread violence over the summer, including direct Israeli strikes on official sites in Damascus and Syrian army vehicles following the dispatch of government reinforcements to the area. Observers believe the withdrawal of heavy weapons is part of Damascus’ efforts to calm the southern front and reduce Israeli justifications for escalation.

A Roadmap for Reconciliation

In parallel, Syrian Foreign Minister Assad Al-Shibani announced a “roadmap” for reconciliation in Sweida, supported by the United States and Jordan. The plan focuses on fostering dialogue among the province’s communities and stabilizing the security situation—paving the way for broader local settlements in southern Syria.

Political and Military Implications

Analysts suggest that this move could mark the beginning of a new path toward restoring stability in this sensitive border region, which has long been a flashpoint between Damascus and Tel Aviv. However, they warn that any security vacuum could invite broader interventions.

A New Approach by Damascus

Although Damascus has not officially announced the details or timeline of the redeployment, military sources confirm that these steps are part of a new approach to managing the south, in parallel with political efforts to reintegrate Sweida into state institutions after months of unrest and protests.