‘Striking All Components of the Axis Iran Has Built’: IDF Captures Iranian Operatives in Southern Syria

Latest Developments

• Israeli Forces Capture Iranian Terrorist Cell: The Israel Defense Forces announced the capture of an Iran-affiliated cell in southern Syria. The terrorists were apprehended at night by troops in the areas of Umm al-Lux and Ain al-Batsali, following intelligence gathered in recent weeks. During the operation, several firearms and grenades were discovered at the location of the arrests.
• Vigilance on Syrian Border: During a field tour of IDF positions in Syria, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir emphasized the importance of maintaining operational readiness amid ongoing instability within Israel’s northern neighbor. Zamir connected the IDF actions in Syria to Israel’s recent war with Iran, telling the troops, “We are severely striking all components of the axis that Iran has built against us — and now, we have acted forcefully against the head of the axis: the Iranian regime and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.” He vowed that the IDF will “strike wherever necessary against any real or emerging danger.”
• Potential for Normalization With Syria: Israeli and U.S. officials have expressed cautious optimism that Syria may be able to normalize relations with Israel, possibly under the framework of the Abraham Accords, now that Iran’s regional influence has been weakened. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated that any normalization agreement would require Syria to accept the 1974 armistice lines with an expanded buffer zone, recognize Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, prevent the use of Syrian territory for Iranian arms transfers, and restrict Turkey’s presence. According to Israeli media reports, Israel and Syria were in “advanced talks” to end hostilities.

FDD Expert Response

“Despite the Syrian government’s crackdown on Iran-linked terrorist groups, it appears that at least some remain. Concerningly for the IDF, some of these elements have operated on Israel’s border. While it may be unlikely that the Syrian government and Israel can completely remove threats posed by armed groups sponsored by Iran, the current security environment in southern Syria has significantly improved since the fall of former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Military activity by non-state actors on Israel’s border, along with other security considerations, will likely emerge as a central issue in any future negotiations aimed at normalizing relations between the two countries.” — Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst and Editor at FDD’s Long War Journal

“Southern Syria has long been a hotbed for Iranian-backed groups, dating back to the early years of the Syrian civil war. In June, a rocket was launched from the area, reportedly by one of these Iran-aligned factions. Recent Israeli intrusions in the region may be coordinated with the new Syrian government given the ongoing security talks between the two sides. This cooperation serves both countries: for Syria, it helps eliminate remnants of Assad-era loyalist militias that could pose a threat to the new leadership in Damascus; for Israel, it offers an opportunity to secure its northern border and reduce threats emanating from southern Syria.” — Ahmad Sharawi, Research Analyst

FDD Background and Analysis

“U.S. Should Promote Security Agreement as Precursor to Israel-Syria Normalization,” by Ahmad Sharawi

“Islamic State Resurfaces in Damascus With Deadly Bombing,” by Ahmad Sharawi

“Victory over Iran gives Trump the chance to reshape Mid East with trade deals,” by Hussain Abdul-Hussian

“The Struggle for Syria,” by Steven A. Cook and Sinan Ciddi