2015 Southern Syria offensive

Military operation April 2018 2015 Southern Syria offensive the Syrian Civil War 2015 Southern Syria offensive.svg 300px #EDC4BE Syrian Government control #CDEBC9 Opposition control #B6A25F Contested 7 February – 13 March 2015(2015 02 7 2015 03 13) Daraa Governorate, Rif Dimashq Governorate and Quneitra Governorate, Syria Phase one: Syrian Army and allies victoryPhase two: Stalemate Government forces capture seven towns and villages and eight hills Syrian Opposition Free Syrian ArmyFlag of the Islamic Front (Syria) (Black).svg Islamic FrontFlag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg al-Nusra FrontFlag of Islamic Muthanna Movement.svg Islamic Muthanna MovementJamaat Bayt al-Maqdis al-Islamiya Syria 1980 Syrian Arab Republic Iranhttp://www.thetower.org/1635oc-backed-by-iran-and-hezbollah-syrian-forces-claim-victory-near-israeli-border/ Backed by Iran and Hezbollah, Syrian Forces Claim Victory Near Israeli Border - The Tower The Tower 11 February 2015 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150212155824/http://www.thetower.org/1635oc-backed-by-iran-and-hezbollah-syrian-forces-claim-victory-near-israeli-border/ 12 February 2015 live Hezbollah Liwa Fatemiyoun infobox flag.png Liwa Fatemiyounhttp://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Syria's Assad Middle East Eye 5 March 2015 6 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150306191301/http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 6 March 2015 live Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi The Return of Iraqi Shi'i Militias to Syria Middle East Institute 2015-03-16 https://www.mei.edu/publications/return-iraqi-shii-militias-syria 2020-09-28 Jaysh al-WafaaNew militia battles Islamist rebels near Damascus https://news.yahoo.com/militia-battles-islamist-rebels-near-damascus-195300695.html Associated Press 8 February 2015 8 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150209024903/http://news.yahoo.com/militia-battles-islamist-rebels-near-damascus-195300695.html 9 February 2015 live Syrian Opposition Gen. Bashar al-Zoubi(Southern Front leader)Syrian Opposition Maj. Abu Osama al-JolaniSyrian Opposition Col. Saber Safar(leader of the First Army)http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/ Clashes and bombardment continue in the triangle of Dar'a-Quneitra-Reef Diamshq 11 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150322185627/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/ 22 March 2015 liveFlag of the Al-Nusra Front.svg Mukhtar Abu Omar(top military leader of al-Nusra Front in Southern Syria)https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/570960516174073856 archicivilians on Twitter Twitter 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/570960516174073856 5 February 2016 livehttps://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/570937581107597312 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/570937581107597312 5 February 2016 live IranFlag of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution.svg Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimanihttp://syriadirect.org/main/37-videos/1848-pictures-reportedly-place-iranian-general-in-daraa PICTURES REPORTEDLY PLACE IRANIAN GENERAL IN DARAA 12 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150212152912/http://syriadirect.org/main/37-videos/1848-pictures-reportedly-place-iranian-general-in-daraa 12 February 2015 liveFlag of Hezbollah (thumbnail placeholder).png Mustafa Badreddinehttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/mustafa-bader-al-din-and-qasem-solaymani-lead-the-military-operations-in-the-south-of-syria/ Mustafa Bader al- Din and Qasem Solaymani lead the military operations in the south of Syria sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 15 February 2015 16 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215171846/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/mustafa-bader-al-din-and-qasem-solaymani-lead-the-military-operations-in-the-south-of-syria/ 15 February 2015 liveSyria 1980 Maj. Gen. Suheil Salman Hassan(5th Mechanized Division)Syria 1980 Brig. Gen. Mahmoud MustafaIranFlag of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution.svg Col. Abbas Abdollahihttps://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/567055898624155649 Thomas van Linge on Twitter Twitter 16 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/567055898624155649 5 February 2016 liveLiwa Fatemiyoun infobox flag.png Ali Reza Tavassoli(Leader of Liwa Fatemiyoun)http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Syria's Assad Middle East Eye 5 March 2015 6 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150306191301/http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 6 March 2015 live Syrian Opposition Southern Front First Army Flag of the Islamic Front (Syria) (Black).svg Islamic Front Ahrar ash-Sham Syrian Armed Forces Flag.svg Syrian Armed Forces Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg Syrian Army Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg 5th Mechanized Division Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg 7th Infantry Division Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg 9th Armored Division Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg 10th Armored Divisionhttp://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/ Map: The Military Situation in North of Daraa Province & SouthWest of RifDimashq Province - February 12, 2015 archicivilians 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150212201353/http://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/ 12 February 2015 usurped InfoboxNDF.png National Defence Force Flag of the Army of the Guardians of the Islamic Revolution.svg IRGChttp://www.thetower.org/1635oc-backed-by-iran-and-hezbollah-syrian-forces-claim-victory-near-israeli-border/ Backed by Iran and Hezbollah, Syrian Forces Claim Victory Near Israeli Border - The Tower The Tower 11 February 2015 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150212155824/http://www.thetower.org/1635oc-backed-by-iran-and-hezbollah-syrian-forces-claim-victory-near-israeli-border/ 12 February 2015 live Flag of the Quds Force.svg Quds Force 2,500https://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ Iran Comes to the Israeli Border Foreign Policy 25 March 2015 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150414205757/http://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ 14 April 2015 live 5,000 300 Hezbollahhttp://www.dailystar.com.lb/news/middle-east/2015/feb-13/287291-defense-minister-rallies-troops-in-snowy-deraa.ashx Defense minister rallies troops in snowy Deraa The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon 14 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20171009174212/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/news/middle-east/2015/feb-13/287291-defense-minister-rallies-troops-in-snowy-deraa.ashx 9 October 2017 live 294 killed (Syrian Army claim)42 killed (9 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064804/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/patience-virtue-syrian-army-launches-offensive-al-quneitra/ 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064411/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-offensive-northern-daraa-full-swing/ 11 February 2015 59 killed (10 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064341/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-ambush-rebels/ 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064343/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-map-syrian-army-captures-deir-al-adass/ 11 February 2015 12 killed (13 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150214005747/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hezbollah-syrian-army-capture-village-near-golan-heights/ 14 February 2015 19 killed (14 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150215162029/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-front-launches-counter-attack-near-deir-al-adass/ 15 February 2015 20 killed (16 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150216122418/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-offensive-update-syrian-air-force-reenters-battle/ 16 February 2015 22 killed (19 February), https://web.archive.org/web/20150219113009/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-attempts-counter-deir-maker/ 19 February 2015 120 killed (15 March), total of 294 reported killed300 killed and wounded (rebel claim) 63 killed (Syrian Army claim)http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hezbollah-syrian-army-capture-village-near-golan-heights/ Hezbollah and Syrian Army capture village near the Golan Heights Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 14 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150214005747/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/hezbollah-syrian-army-capture-village-near-golan-heights/ 14 February 2015 deadhttp://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-offensive-update-syrian-air-force-reenters-battle/ Southern Front Offensive (Update): Syrian Air Force reenters the battle Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 16 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150216122418/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-offensive-update-syrian-air-force-reenters-battle/ 16 February 2015 deadhttp://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Syria's Assad Middle East Eye 5 March 2015 6 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150306191301/http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 6 March 2015 live 43 killed, 10–12 executed, 40 captured (SOHR claim)http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-15/287465-scores-dead-in-heavy-fighting-in-southern-syria.ashx Scores dead in heavy fighting in southern Syria Daily Star Lebanon 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215135807/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-15/287465-scores-dead-in-heavy-fighting-in-southern-syria.ashx 15 February 2015 livehttp://www.alarabiya.net/ar/arab-and-world/syria/2015/02/15/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D8%B3-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AB%D9%88%D8%B1%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D8%B9%D8%AF%D9%85-12-%D8%B9%D9%86%D8%B5%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D8%B3%D8%AF.html الحرس الثوري الإيراني يعدم 12 عنصراً من قوات الأسد 16 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215184519/http://www.alarabiya.net/ar/arab-and-world/syria/2015/02/15/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%B1%D8%B3-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AB%D9%88%D8%B1%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D8%B9%D8%AF%D9%85-12-%D8%B9%D9%86%D8%B5%D8%B1%D8%A7-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D8%B3%D8%AF.html 15 February 2015 live400 killed and 1 captured (rebel claim)https://www.timesofisrael.com/syrian-opposition-claims-capture-of-female-russian-soldier/ Syrian opposition claims capture of female Russian soldier Times of Israel 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20181017204343/https://www.timesofisrael.com/syrian-opposition-claims-capture-of-female-russian-soldier/ 17 October 2018 live The 2015 Southern Syria offensive, code-named "Operation Martyrs of Quneitra",https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/new-al-quneitra-offensive-gets-off-to-a-fast-start/ New Al-Quneitra offensive gets off to a fast start 22 July 2015 Al-Masdar News 8 April 2018 https://web.archive.org/web/20180408154540/https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/new-al-quneitra-offensive-gets-off-to-a-fast-start/ 8 April 2018 dead was an offensive launched in southern Syria during the Syrian Civil War by the Syrian Arab Army, Hezbollah and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps forces.http://m.huffpost.com/us/entry/6668744 The Battle for Southern Syria Has Been Joined and a Regional Conflict May Just Be the Main Event Huffington Post 12 February 2015 13 February 2015 Noe NicholasKafr Shams Government forces also include Iranian sponsored Afghani Shi'ite volunteer militias. The name "Operation Martyrs of Quneitra" refers to the January 2015 Mazraat Amal incident, in which several high level Hezbollah and IRGC members were killed in an Israeli strike.https://www.businessinsider.com/the-next-battle-in-the-israel-hezbollah-war-is-unfolding-in-southern-syria-2015-3?r=US The next battle in the Israel-Hezbollah war is unfolding in southern Syria Business Insider UK The Washington Institute For Near East Policy 5 March 2015 6 March 2015 Herzog Michael https://web.archive.org/web/20150402145737/http://uk.businessinsider.com/the-next-battle-in-the-israel-hezbollah-war-is-unfolding-in-southern-syria-2015-3?r=US 2 April 2015 live After Syrian troops and their allies captured 15 towns, villages and hills, the operation slowedhttps://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402 As regional war rages, Syria's Assad faces setbacks Perry Tom Al-Khalidi Suleiman Reuters 2 April 2015 14 April 2015 But the offensive stalled after some early but limited gains https://web.archive.org/web/20150407220940/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/02/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402 7 April 2015 live and stalled during attempts to advance on Kafr Shams and Kafr Nasij. The gains by pro-government troops were described as limited, while the pro-Damascus As-Safir reported the gains were a "devastating" defeat for the rebels.http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-jabhat-nusra-bosra-tikrit-fronts-fighting-offensives.html# Jabhat al-Nusra looks for battlefield breakout Al-Monitor 16 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150331102346/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-jabhat-nusra-bosra-tikrit-fronts-fighting-offensives.html 31 March 2015 dead dmy-all Most viewed the offensive as unsuccessful,https://www.ft.com/content/16a10034-df6c-11e4-b6da-00144feab7de Syria's rebels heartened by healing of Sunni Arab rifts Solomon Erika Kerr Simeon Financial Times 13 April 2015 13 April 2015 In the south, opposition forces foiled an offensive led by regime allies from Hizbollah, the Lebanese Shia militia, and military advisers from Iran's Revolutionary Guard. The opposition has now set its sights on Derra https://web.archive.org/web/20150416000339/http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/16a10034-df6c-11e4-b6da-00144feab7de.html 16 April 2015 live https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0421/Can-Syria-s-Assad-withstand-latest-battlefield-setbacks-video Can Syria's Assad withstand latest battlefield setbacks? (+video) Christian Science Monitor Blanford Nicholas 21 August 2011 22 April 2015 Furthermore, regime offensives launched in the southern provinces of Deraa and Quneitra and Aleppo in the north have proved unsuccessful. https://web.archive.org/web/20170621060446/http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0421/Can-Syria-s-Assad-withstand-latest-battlefield-setbacks-video 21 June 2017 live http://www.eaworldview.com/2015/04/syria-daily-assad-regime-the-media-are-lying-about-rebel-victories/ Syria Daily, April 29: Assad Regime — "The Media Are Lying About Rebel Victories" EA Worldview Lucas Scott 29 April 2015 30 April 2015 In the past three months, the rebels have [...] checked another regime offensive south of Damascus https://web.archive.org/web/20150501205150/http://eaworldview.com/2015/04/syria-daily-assad-regime-the-media-are-lying-about-rebel-victories/ 1 May 2015 live http://www.businessinsider.com/these-are-the-assads-regimes-4-biggest-military-goals-in-the-syrian-civil-war-2015-4?IR=T These are the Assad's regime's 4 biggest military goals in the Syrian Civil War Business Insider Institute for the Study of War Kozak Christopher 29 April 2015 30 April 2015 Unsuccessful regime attempts to once again shift its campaign towards Dera’a and Quneitra Provinces starting in December 2014 indicated that overall regime offensive capabilities in southern Syria may be waning despite fresh influxes of Iranian proxies to the frontlines. https://web.archive.org/web/20150503005137/http://www.businessinsider.com/these-are-the-assads-regimes-4-biggest-military-goals-in-the-syrian-civil-war-2015-4?IR=T 3 May 2015 live https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/apr/27/syrian-rebels-hail-fall-of-jisr-al-shughour-as-sign-of-growing-strength Syrian rebels hail fall of Jisr al-Shughour as sign of growing strength The Guardian Chulov Martin Shaheen Kareem 27 April 2015 30 April 2015 Earlier this year, loyalist offensives in Aleppo, northern Damascus and southern Syria were similarly defeated within days. https://web.archive.org/web/20150527012406/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/apr/27/syrian-rebels-hail-fall-of-jisr-al-shughour-as-sign-of-growing-strength 27 May 2015 live with the rebels "weathering"https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKBN0N511N20150414?irpc=932 Southern Syria rebels set collision course with al Qaeda Perry Tom Reuters 14 April 2015 14 April 2015 [The Southern Front] has seized a border crossing and a government-held town in recent weeks after weathering a government offensive the "collapsed" offensive.https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/assads-regime-at-increasing-risk-amid-a-surge-of-rebel-advances/2015/04/26/c2742e22-ec32-11e4-8050-839e9234b303_story.html Assad's hold on power looks shakier than ever as rebels advance in Syria The Washington Post Sly Liz 26 April 2015 27 April 2015 [...] government forces have been proving increasingly ineffective. The collapse of two much-trumpeted offensives earlier this year, in southern Syria and in Aleppo, presaged the success of the recent rebel offensives https://web.archive.org/web/20150427165415/http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/assads-regime-at-increasing-risk-amid-a-surge-of-rebel-advances/2015/04/26/c2742e22-ec32-11e4-8050-839e9234b303_story.html 27 April 2015 live Background In October 2014, the rebels captured the electronic warfare station at Tal al-Harra thanks to the defection of General Mahmoud Abu Araj, who remained in his Syrian Arab Army position while passing intel to insurgent forces and sowing discord between Army forces and their Iranian allies; this led to the execution of as many as 56 Army officers in an attempt to stem the intel leaks.https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/exclusive-the-spy-who-fooled-the-assad-regime-1.66950 Exclusive: The spy who fooled the Assad regime The National 20 March 2015 28 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150328133327/http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/exclusive-the-spy-who-fooled-the-assad-regime 28 March 2015 live The recapture of Tal al-Harra would be one of the main objectives of the coming offensive.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-advancing-towards-tal-al-harra/ Northern Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Advancing Towards Tal Al-Harra Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402111622/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-advancing-towards-tal-al-harra/ 2 April 2015 dead The strategic aims of the offensive were the recapture of Tal al-Harra,http://www.almanar.com.lb/adetails.php?eid=1114441 الصحافة اليوم 12-02-2014: الجيش السوري يتقدم على الجبهة الجنوبية- أرشيف موقع قناة المنار Al-Manar 11 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150418090905/http://www.almanar.com.lb/adetails.php?eid=1114441 18 April 2015 live the elimination of a perceived rebel-Israeli buffer zone protected by Al-Nusra Front forces in the area between Israel and Syria, guarding the Syrian capital of Damascus against further rebel encroachment, preventing the Syrian rebels from establishing a southeastern front in Lebanon and cutting off rebel supply lines leading to Jordan.http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4625972,00.html Assad, Hezbollah, and Iran's onslaught towards Israel Ynetnews 11 February 2015 13 February 2015 Kais Roi https://web.archive.org/web/20150213205937/http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4625972,00.html 13 February 2015 live An additional aim of the offensive was the creation of a Hezbollah-controlled "Golan front""Resistance front" and "third front" are also used against Israel.http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-14/287403-many-players-in-the-deraa-campaign.ashx Many players in the Deraa campaign The Daily Star 13 February 2015 17 February 2015 Dick Marlin the regime and its allies intend to 'open a second front of resistance' against Israel on the Golan Heights https://web.archive.org/web/20150216134447/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-14/287403-many-players-in-the-deraa-campaign.ashx 16 February 2015 live https://www.stratfor.com/sample/analysis/syria-new-battlefront-opens In Syria, a New Battlefront Opens Stratfor 13 February 2015 18 February 2015 From Hezbollah's point of view, gaining a stronger position in the Golan Heights also serves its objectives towards Israel. If the offensive is successful, they will likely sustain a presence there https://web.archive.org/web/20150218165303/https://www.stratfor.com/sample/analysis/syria-new-battlefront-opens 18 February 2015 live https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-hezbollah-fights-on-golan-geopolitical-lines-shift As Hezbollah fights on Golan, borders are redrawn The Times of Israel 16 February 2015 18 February 2015 Issacharoff Avi on the geopolitical level, Hezbollah is trying to implement the vision only recently introduced by its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, according to whom the Syrian Golan Heights and South Lebanon are a united front https://web.archive.org/web/20150218104749/https://www.timesofisrael.com/as-hezbollah-fights-on-golan-geopolitical-lines-shift/ 18 February 2015 live http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/xinhua-news-agency/150214/roundup-5000-hezbollah-iranian-fighters-spearhead-battles-ne Roundup: 5,000 Hezbollah, Iranian fighters spearhead battles near Israeli borders Global Post Xinhua News Agency 14 February 2015 18 February 2015 Analysts also said that Hezbollah want to show Israel that it's capable of posing threats to its borders, not only in Lebanon, but also in the Golan Heights https://web.archive.org/web/20150219060714/http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/xinhua-news-agency/150214/roundup-5000-hezbollah-iranian-fighters-spearhead-battles-ne 19 February 2015 live https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/iran-forming-third-front-against-israel-on-golan-netanyahu-115022200559_1.html Iran forming 'third front' against Israel on Golan: Netanyahu Agence-France Presse Business Standard 22 February 2015 30 August 2025 Iran is seeking to open a "third front" against Israel using Hezbollah fighters on the Syrian Golan Heights, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday The offensive focused on a triangle of rebel-held territory from rural areas southwest of Damascus to Daraa city to Quneitra,http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-regains-ground-rebels-south Syrian Army Regains Ground from Rebels in the South Al Akhbar English 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211210553/http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-regains-ground-rebels-south 11 February 2015 dead dmy-all with the initial focus being on seizing the villages of Kafr Shams, Zimreen and Deir al-Adas.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-offensive-northern-daraa/ The Syrian Army begins an offensive in northern Dara'a Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064020/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-offensive-northern-daraa/ 11 February 2015 dead A source close to senior Hezbollah figures stated that the start date of the offensive was accelerated due to the assassination carried out by Israel in the Golan heights of several high-ranking Hezbollah and Iranian military figures. Offensive Initial government advance On 7 February 2015, the Army's 5th Armored Division, along with reinforcements from the 7th Infantry Division, launched the offensive in the northern part of Daraa province. During the first day's fighting, 10 rebels were killed in clashes around Kafr Shams.http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/161-%D9%82%D8%B6%D9%88%D8%A7-%D8%A3%D9%85%D8%B3%D8%8C-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%87%D9%85-57-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B3%D9%84/ 161 قضوا أمس، بينهم 57 من قوات النظام والمسلحين الموالين لها، و61 من الكتائب المقاتلة والكتائب الإسلامية وجبهة النصرة وتنظيم "الدولة الإسلامية". - المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان Ahmad المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150208193641/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/161-%d9%82%d8%b6%d9%88%d8%a7-%d8%a3%d9%85%d8%b3%d8%8c-%d8%a8%d9%8a%d9%86%d9%87%d9%85-57-%d9%85%d9%86-%d9%82%d9%88%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%86%d8%b8%d8%a7%d9%85-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%b3%d9%84/ 8 February 2015 live On 8 February, government forces bombarded multiple towns in Daraa provincehttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/islamic-battalions-target-regime-forces-in-dara-and-hama/ Islamic battalions target regime forces in Dar'a and Hama Master Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150208182053/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/islamic-battalions-target-regime-forces-in-dara-and-hama/ 8 February 2015 live and heavy fighting ensued which left 11 rebels dead. The heaviest clashes occurred at Kafr Shams.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/11-fighters-killed-in-daraa-today/ 11 fighters killed in Daraa today sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 8 February 2015 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150208124020/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/11-fighters-killed-in-daraa-today/ 8 February 2015 live The military also bombarded the towns of Om Batena and Mashara in the Quneitra province,http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-open-fire-and-shell-areas-in-the-countryside-of-daraa-and-al-quneitera/ The regime forces open fire and shell areas in the countryside of Daraa and al- Quneitera sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150208230417/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-open-fire-and-shell-areas-in-the-countryside-of-daraa-and-al-quneitera/ 8 February 2015 live as the Army's 9th Division launched an offensive in that governorate as well. According to a military source, government forces captured several hills.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/patience-virtue-syrian-army-launches-offensive-al-quneitra/ Patience is a virtue; Syrian Army launches an offensive in Al-Quneitra Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064804/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/patience-virtue-syrian-army-launches-offensive-al-quneitra/ 11 February 2015 dead Tall Marri Deir MakirMeanwhile, in Rif Dimashq province government troops managed to capture Tall Marri hill, but were unable to advance towards the town of Deir Makir.https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/564535983920541696 archicivilians on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/564535983920541696 5 February 2016 live The capture of Tall Marri hill was significant because it cut a rebel supply line and increased the isolation of rebel-held pockets around the city of Damascus.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkEy-AOnYJw الجزيرة: معارك الريف الغربي ولقاء مع قائد ميداني لألوية الفرقان Al Jazeera 14 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20171014054223/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkEy-AOnYJw 14 October 2017 live Deir al-AdasOn 9 February, fighting erupted in Deir Makirhttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/clashes-continue-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq-more-human-losses/ Clashes continue in Dar'a and Reef Dimashq, more human losses Master 9 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065425/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/clashes-continue-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq-more-human-losses/ 11 February 2015 live and around Deir al-Adas in Daraa where four rebels were killed and two Army tanks were destroyed.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/4-rebels-killed-by-clashes-in-der-al-adas-dara/ 4 rebels killed by clashes in Der al-Adas, Dar'a Master 9 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211073232/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/4-rebels-killed-by-clashes-in-der-al-adas-dara/ 11 February 2015 live By the end of the day, the Army, supported by the NDF, Hezbollah and Iranian fighters, advanced in the al-Ollayqat area near Deir al-Adas.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-clash-with-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-in-daraa/ The regime forces, backed by Hezbollah and Iranian fighters, clash with the rebel and Islamic factions in Daraa sohranas 9 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211073401/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-clash-with-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-in-daraa/ 11 February 2015 live Tal GhashamMilitary sources reported that 65% Deir al-Adas, as well as Tal Ghasham near Kafr Shams, were captured.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-offensive-northern-daraa-full-swing/ Syrian Army's offensive in northern Dara'a is in full-swing Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064411/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-offensive-northern-daraa-full-swing/ 11 February 2015 dead TayhaThe Army also captured the village of Tayha.https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/564807226582630401 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/564807226582630401 5 February 2016 live According to the rebels, government troops were supported by a large number of Afghan fighters as well during the offensive in Daraa and Rif Dimashq.https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565206996459081728 archicivilians on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565206996459081728 5 February 2016 live On the morning of 10 February, the Army ambushed a group of Al-Nusra Front rebels at the village of Mahjat, in northern Daraa, leaving between 8 and 19 fighters dead.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-ambush-rebels/ Daraa: Syrian Army ambush rebels Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064341/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-ambush-rebels/ 11 February 2015 deadhttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-rebels-killed-by-an-ambush-by-regime-forces-in-dara-countryside/ 8 rebels killed by an ambush by regime forces in Dar'a countryside Master 10 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065354/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-rebels-killed-by-an-ambush-by-regime-forces-in-dara-countryside/ 11 February 2015 live DanajiMeanwhile, fighting in Der al-Adas left another eight rebels dead,http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-fighters-killed-in-der-al-adas-town/ 8 fighters killed in Der al-Adas town Master 10 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065449/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-fighters-killed-in-der-al-adas-town/ 11 February 2015 live while government troops advanced and captured Deir Makir,https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565021714950938624 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565021714950938624 5 February 2016 livehttps://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LE21L20150210 Syrian government launches offensive against rebels in south 10 February 2015 Reuters 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20151001170226/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/10/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LE21L20150210 1 October 2015 live al-Danajihttps://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/564807-hezbollah-iran-back-south-syria-offensive Hezbollah, Iran back south Syria offensive 10 February 2015 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211074123/https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/564807-hezbollah-iran-back-south-syria-offensive 11 February 2015 livehttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-advance-in-reef-dimashq/ Regime forces backed by Hezbollah and Iranian fighters advance in Reef Dimashq Master 10 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211063115/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-advance-in-reef-dimashq/ 11 February 2015 live and Habariyah.https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565247752901525504 archicivilians on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565247752901525504 5 February 2016 live Later the military secured Deir al-Adas,http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-map-syrian-army-captures-deir-al-adass/ Northern Dara'a Map: Syrian Army captures Deir Al-'Adass Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064343/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-map-syrian-army-captures-deir-al-adass/ 11 February 2015 deadhttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-iranian-fighters-and-regime-forces-take-control-on-der-al-adas-town/ Hezbollah, Iranian fighters, and regime forces take control on Der al-Adas town Master 11 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211132620/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-iranian-fighters-and-regime-forces-take-control-on-der-al-adas-town/ 11 February 2015 livehttps://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565147856336855040 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150328012640/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565147856336855040 28 March 2015 live with over 40 rebels and 23 soldiers being killed during the battle for the town. During the day, government artillery and air strikes hit rebel positions in Mashara, directly east of Quneitra and Harrah, to cut off rebels in Daraa from the Golan. A reporter for the Lebanese al-Mayadeen news channel, embedded with the Syrian Army, reported from Quneitra that the offensive had cut an important rebel supply route from Jordan to opposition-held areas west of Damascus. Tall Ghurabah Tall AntarArmy artillery from Tall Ghurabah hill also struck rebel positions on Tall Antar hill, near Kafr Shams, during the day.https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/565146214849871872 Thomas van Linge on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/565146214849871872 5 February 2016 live al-Arus al-Sarja Tell al-MseehOn 11 February, the Army and Hezbollah captured the hills of al-Arus and al-Sarja,http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-and-hezbollah-take-control-on-2-hills-in-damascus-countryside/ Regime forces and Hezbollah take control on 2 hills in Damascus countryside Master 11 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211144954/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-and-hezbollah-take-control-on-2-hills-in-damascus-countryside/ 11 February 2015 livehttps://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-government-troops-advancing-south-damascus-28881795 Syrian Troops, Hezbollah Launch Major Offensive Near Golan ABC News 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150213091052/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-government-troops-advancing-south-damascus-28881795 13 February 2015 dead near Deir Makir and al-Mseeh hill near Deir al Adas,http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/02/regime-syria-daraa-southern-front-opposition.html Syria opposition forces claim regime attack in Daraa futile Al Monitor 20 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150221143418/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/02/regime-syria-daraa-southern-front-opposition.html 21 February 2015 dead dmy-all and advanced towards Sultaniyah,https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565451373014433796 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565451373014433796 5 February 2016 livehttp://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=195336&frid=23&seccatid=20&cid=23&fromval=1 Syrian Army Continues Campaign in South, Controls More Areas AL-Manar 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150924133136/http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=195336&frid=23&seccatid=20&cid=23&fromval=1 24 September 2015 dead dmy-all which they bombarded. Meanwhile, Harrah residents reportedly asked rebel fighters to evacuate so to avoid any potential clashes in the town.https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565468468003495937 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565468468003495937 5 February 2016 live At this point, the second phase of the government's Daraa offensive was started with fighting happening all along the frontline.https://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/565471764973907969 Peto Lucem on Twitter Twitter 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/565471764973907969 5 February 2016 live Tall AlaqiyahIn Rif Dimashq, according to SOHR, fighting raged around Tall Fatima hill where a number of soldiers were captured, as well as around Hamrit with one tank being destroyed, and over Tall Antar and Tall Alaqiyah.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-gain-control-on-der-maker-clashes-continue-between-dara-and-damascus-countrysides/ Hezbollah gain control on Der Maker, Clashes continue between Dar'a and Damascus countrysides Master 11 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150211185450/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-gain-control-on-der-maker-clashes-continue-between-dara-and-damascus-countrysides/ 11 February 2015 livehttps://twitter.com/markito0171/status/565491812044140544 markito0171 on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/markito0171/status/565491812044140544 5 February 2016 live On 12 February, rapid advances by government forces slowed because of a snowstorm in the region.http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28090853/syria-rebels-call-for-help-against-assad-as-death-toll-rises Syria rebels call for help against Assad as death toll rises 12 February 2015 13 February 2015 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20150212210558/http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28090853/syria-rebels-call-for-help-against-assad-as-death-toll-rises 12 February 2015 Kafr NasijStill, the military captured the Ghirbal area of the town of Kafr Nasij, where fighters from Deir al-Adas had retreated to and were continuing to fight. After this, the commander of the rebel FSA 24th Division issued an urgent call for reinforcements.https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565770641270644736 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565770641270644736 5 February 2016 livehttps://twitter.com/samlondon06/status/565771478369853440 Sam on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/samlondon06/status/565771478369853440 5 February 2016 live Tall QreinFierce fighting also occurred in Sultaniyah,https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565867136808398848 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565867136808398848 5 February 2016 live while the Army seized Tall Fatima hill and pushed the rebels toward Tall Qrein hill.https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565921659471659008 archicivilians on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565921659471659008 5 February 2016 live Kafr Shams was also coming under attack.https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566136346184777728 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 13 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566136346184777728 5 February 2016 live Offensive stalls In the following days, the rebels managed to recapture Tayha and Habariyah.https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0311/Syrian-rebels-march-on-Damascus-becomes-fight-for-their-survival Syrian rebels' march on Damascus becomes fight for their survival (+video) The Christian Science Monitor The Christian Science Monitor 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20171009174155/https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0311/Syrian-rebels-march-on-Damascus-becomes-fight-for-their-survival 9 October 2017 livehttp://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/ Map: The Military Situation in North of Daraa Province & SouthWest of RifDimashq Province - February 12, 2015 archicivilians 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150212201353/http://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/ 12 February 2015 usurped On 14 February, government forces continued to bombard Kafr Shams, Kafr Nasij and Tall Antar hill.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/human-losses-in-eastern-ghouta-and-clashes-in-dara-countryside/ Human losses in Eastern Ghouta and Clashes in Dar'a countryside Master 14 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 14 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150214165226/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/human-losses-in-eastern-ghouta-and-clashes-in-dara-countryside/ 14 February 2015 live Two Iranian IRGC officers (one of them a colonel) were killed in Kafr Nasij that day,https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566524162320379904 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566524162320379904 5 February 2016 live while two reporters from the pro-government Al-Ekhbariya TV channel were wounded by rebel shelling on Deir al-Adas.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/photographers-and-reporters-of-a-tv-channel-were-wounded-in-daraa/ Photographers and reporters of a TV channel were wounded in Daraa 14 February 2015 SOHR 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150214223406/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/photographers-and-reporters-of-a-tv-channel-were-wounded-in-daraa/ 14 February 2015 live According to the SOHR, 10 soldiers were executed on the charge of passing information to the enemy, while 5,000 more reinforcements were ordered to fight the rebels in the south.http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/5-%D8%A2%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%81-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%88%D8%AD%D8%B2%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8-%D8%B3/ 5 آلاف مقاتل من إيران وحزب الله في جنوب سوريا SOHR 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215161349/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/5-%D8%A2%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%81-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%88%D8%AD%D8%B2%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8-%D8%B3/ 15 February 2015 live An Al-Nusra Front counter-attack on Deir al-Adas was reportedly repelled with 19 rebels and 11 soldiers being killed.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-front-launches-counter-attack-near-deir-al-adass/ Al-Nusra Front launches counter-attack near Deir Al-'Adass Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 16 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215162029/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-front-launches-counter-attack-near-deir-al-adass/ 15 February 2015 dead On 15 February, the Syrian Air Force resumed bombing rebel positions, after being forced to remain on the ground for five days due to bad weather conditions.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/after-5-days-regime-air-forces-targets-areas-in-dara-countryside/ After 5 days, Regime air forces targets areas in Dar'a countryside 15 February 2015 SOHR 15 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150215150111/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/after-5-days-regime-air-forces-targets-areas-in-dara-countryside/ 15 February 2015 live Rebels claimed to have captured a senior Iranian officer and a Russian military missile system operator on the Daraa frontline. However, the Southern Front spokesman denied the claim of Iranian prisoners, but confirmed that the bodies of the two Iranian officers were in rebel possession.http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-17/287684-rebels-begin-revenge-campaign-in-aleppo.ashx Rebels begin revenge campaign in Aleppo The Daily Star 17 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150217142114/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-17/287684-rebels-begin-revenge-campaign-in-aleppo.ashx 17 February 2015 live On 17 February, a Hezbollah attack on Mashara was repelled. Still, fighting continued in the area of the village and the next day a military source reported Hezbollah had captured Syria Tel Hill.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-hezbollah-takes-control-syria-tel-hill-al-quneitra/ Breaking: Hezbollah takes control of Syria Tel Hill in Al-Quneitra Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 19 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150218160114/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-hezbollah-takes-control-syria-tel-hill-al-quneitra/ 18 February 2015 dead At the same time, the al-Nusra Front started a counter-attack to recapture all ground lost since the start of the offensive and managed to advance near al-Danaji.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-nusra-front-announces-start-of-tawhid-al-raya-battle/ The Nusra Front announces start of "Tawhid al- Raya" battle sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 19 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150218183829/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-nusra-front-announces-start-of-tawhid-al-raya-battle/ 18 February 2015 live On 19 February, the al-Nusra Front recaptured Tall Fatima and advanced towards Deir Maker. However, after fierce resistance from the 9th Armored Division, al-Nusra retreated to the recently captured hill after suffering 22 dead.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-attempts-counter-deir-maker/ Dara'a : Al-Nusra Front attempts to counter at Deir Maker Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 19 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150219113009/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-attempts-counter-deir-maker/ 19 February 2015 dead The next day, a military source reported that Hezbollah continued their fierce assault on the al-Nusra Front south of the recently captured Syria Tel Hill, where they reportedly advanced further south in the village of Mashara, while in Al-Hamidiyyeh, the 9th Armored Division reportedly progressed towards the village cemetery after fierce clashes for two straight days.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-hezbollah-inching-closer-israeli-border/ Al-Quneitra: Hezbollah inching closer to the Israeli border Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 20 February 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150220130809/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-hezbollah-inching-closer-israeli-border/ 20 February 2015 dead Later in the day, the Army recaptured Tall Fatima.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-suffers-setbacks-hezbollah-advances-south/#prettyPhoto Dara'a: the Al-Nusra Front suffers setbacks as Hezbollah advances south Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150222132141/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-suffers-setbacks-hezbollah-advances-south/#prettyPhoto 22 February 2015 dead However, on 21 February, fighting renewed for Tall Fatima.http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%AF%D9%85%D8%B4%D9%82-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%88%D9%81/ اشتباكات في ريف دمشق الجنوبي الغربي وفي أطراف مخيم اليرموك المرصد السوري المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150221124941/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%AF%D9%85%D8%B4%D9%82-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%88%D9%81/ 21 February 2015 live Al-HamidiyahOn 25 February, after three days of inactivity due to harsh weather,http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-syrian-army-hezbollah-restart-operations-province/ Al-Quneitra: The Syrian Army and Hezbollah Restart Operations in the Province Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150226062836/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-syrian-army-hezbollah-restart-operations-province/ 26 February 2015 dead Hezbollah made an attempt to capture Al-Hamidiyyehhttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-tries-to-seize-the-town-of-al-hamidiyyi/ Hezbollah tries to seize the town of al- Hamidiyyi sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150226232833/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-tries-to-seize-the-town-of-al-hamidiyyi/ 26 February 2015 live and reportedly killed 16 rebels.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-fierce-clashes-flood-al-quneitra-daraa/ Southern Front: Fierce Clashes Flood Al-Quneitra and Dara'a Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150226074413/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-fierce-clashes-flood-al-quneitra-daraa/ 26 February 2015 dead Renewed government advance Sultaniyah al Fatima Habariyah Hamrit SabsabaOver 27 and 28 February,https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LW0J920150228?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews Syrian army takes villages in south 28 February 2015 Reuters 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150302173902/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/28/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LW0J920150228?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews 2 March 2015 live government troops captured Sultaniyah, Habariyah, Hamrit and Sabsabah, as well as Tall Qrein and Tall Fatima hills.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-3-towns-northern-daraa/ Breaking: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Capture 3 Towns in Northern Dara'a Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150302133722/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-3-towns-northern-daraa/ 2 March 2015 dead The battle for Tall Qrein lasted two hours. Heavy fighting continued in the Tal al-Allaqiya, Tal Samn, Aqrabah, Simlinhttps://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/571647077119348736 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/571647077119348736 5 February 2016 live and around Kafr Nasij and Kafr Shams where government forces attempted to advance.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-advances-and-take-control-on-3-towns-and-villages/ Hezbollah advances and take control on 3 towns and villages Master Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150302162215/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-advances-and-take-control-on-3-towns-and-villages/ 2 March 2015 live During the two-day clashes, at least 26 soldiers and 19–51 rebels were killed.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/26-members-of-the-regime-forces-and-allied-militiamen-killed-today/ 26 members of the regime forces and allied militiamen killed today sohranas Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 4 March 2015 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20150915174801/http://www.syriahr.com/en/2015/03/26-members-of-the-regime-forces-and-allied-militiamen-killed-today/ 15 September 2015 http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/19-fighters-of-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-killed-in-clashes-in-the-north-of-daraa/ 19 fighters of the rebel and Islamic factions killed in clashes in the north of Daraa sohranas 28 February 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150301150403/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/19-fighters-of-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-killed-in-clashes-in-the-north-of-daraa/ 1 March 2015 liveBattle Map of Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Sweeping Through the Northern Countryside http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-map-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-sweeping-northern-countryside/ Al-Masdar 1 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150303152113/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-map-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-sweeping-northern-countryside/ 3 March 2015 dead Tall al-Bazzaq Tal al-SayyadOn 1 March, the Army made new attempts to advance at Kafr Shams,http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-in-dara-and-hasakah-countrysides/ Clashes in Dar'a and Hasakah countrysides Master March 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150304153626/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-in-dara-and-hasakah-countrysides/ 4 March 2015 live while they captured Tall al-Bazzaqhttps://twitter.com/Conflict_Report/status/572009779947823104 Conflict Reporter on Twitter Twitter 4 March 2015 and Rajm al-Sayd hill, also known as Tal al-Sayyad.https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/572311004123680768 Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter Twitter 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150713014051/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/572311004123680768 13 July 2015 livehttp://www.sana.sy/en/?p=30455 Army wrests control of key towns in several provinces h.said March 2015 11 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402181022/http://www.sana.sy/en/?p=30455 2 April 2015 live Syrian troops and Hezbollah also managed to advance to within 10 kilometers from Tal al-Harra, capturing hills overlooking it. At this point, the Army stated they had completed the first phase of their offensive, creating a buffer-zone between northwest Daraa and the West Ghouta area of Rif Dimashq. The second planned phase would be a two-pronged attack, with the 7th Division attempting to capture Kafr Shams, while Hezbollah and the 9th Division will look to capture Kafr Nasij, after which both divisions and Hezbollah would link up at ‘Aqraba. Umm Batinah MasharaA large part of the offensive would consist from the 9th Division and Hezbollah’s advance to Nabi Sakhar and their capture of ‘Umm Batna and Mashara.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-phase-ii-southern-front-offensive/ Syrian Army and Hezbollah Begin Phase II of Southern Front Offensive Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150305043634/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-phase-ii-southern-front-offensive/ 5 March 2015 dead The Syrian Brigadier General Mahmoud Mustafa (commander of a commando unit) was reportedly killed in Hebbariye, Quneitra, that day.http://www.sirajpress.com/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%84/%D8%B4%D9%8F%D9%8A%D9%91%D8%B9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%BA%D9%88%D8%B1..-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D8%B1%D8%B2-%D8%B4%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AF-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-/6106/ شُيّع في الشاغور.. مقتل أبرز شبيحة الاسد في القنيطرة 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402135104/http://www.sirajpress.com/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%84/%D8%B4%D9%8F%D9%8A%D9%91%D8%B9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%BA%D9%88%D8%B1..-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D8%B1%D8%B2-%D8%B4%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AF-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-/6106/ 2 April 2015 dead dmy-allhttp://syriadailynews.com/25518 قناديل وطن (5)..يزيد جرجوس 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150406041521/http://syriadailynews.com/25518 6 April 2015 live On 3 March, it was reported that seven Afghan pro-government fighters were buried, including the commander of the Afghan volunteer Fatemiyoun Brigade, Alireza Tavassoli, who was killed on 28 February in Daraa province.http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-03/289440-iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-for-damascus-ally.ashx Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Damascus ally The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon 4 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150403123632/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-03/289440-iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-for-damascus-ally.ashx 3 April 2015 live That day, an operation room, consisting of Jabhat al-Nusra, Ahrar ash-Sham, Jamaat Bayt al-Maqdis al-Islamiya and the Islamic Muthanna Movement, was established in Daraa. The Free Syrian Army's First Army played a secondary role in this operation room. The reason for this, was the repeated failures to repel government attacks and the lack of unity among the moderate rebel groups. Most of the Southern Front affiliated groups refused to play a significant role in the battle.http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-southern-front-differences.html# Syria dissident groups still not united Al-Monitor 1 May 2025 https://web.archive.org/web/20150717151202/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-southern-front-differences.html 17 July 2015 dead dmy-allhttp://www.mei.edu/content/article/isis-and-syria%E2%80%99s-southern-front ISIS and Syria's Southern Front Middle East Institute 11 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20180704093120/http://www.mei.edu/content/article/isis-and-syria%E2%80%99s-southern-front 4 July 2018 live Offensive's second phase The second phase of the offensive started 4 March, with the military and Hezbollah attacking Tal Al-Mal, Kafr Shams and Kafr Nasij at the same time. At Tal Al-Mal, they reportedly managed to break through rebel defenses, while the clashes at Kafr Shams left 17 rebels and 8 soldiers dead, according to a military source.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-creeping-closer-tal-al-harra/ Southern Front (Dara'a) Syrian Army and Hezbollah are Creeping Closer to Tal Al-Harra Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 11 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20190719103147/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-creeping-closer-tal-al-harra/ 19 July 2019 dead On 11 March, the Syrian Air Force bombed the headquarters of the First Army in the southern countryside of Quneitra, killing a number of rebels including the First Army's commander.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/ Clashes and bombardment continue in the triangle of Dar'a-Quneitra-Reef Diamshq Master 11 March 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 11 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150322185627/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/ 22 March 2015 live Four days later, Lebanese, Hezbollah-affiliated, television station Al-Manar reported that 120 Jabhat al-Nusra fighters, including three field commanders, were killed in another air-raid in Quneitra province.https://en.abna24.com/service/middle-east-west-asia/archive/2015/03/15/677006/story.html Syrian Army Strikes Terrorists in Quneitra Countryside: 120 Killed, Injured On 13 March, after almost two weeks of fighting, the military reportedly advanced towards the southwestern part of Kafr Nasij.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-and-hezbollah-advance-at-kafr-nissaj/ Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Advance at Kafr Nissaj Leith Fadel Al-Masdar News 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402121325/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-and-hezbollah-advance-at-kafr-nissaj/ 2 April 2015 dead Aftermath On 6 April, rebels launched a counter-attack in the Kafr Shams area,https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/585081505174712320 Syrian Rebellion Obs on Twitter Twitter 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/585081505174712320 5 February 2016 livehttp://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/20-killed-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq/ 20 killed in Dar'a and Reef Dimashq Master 6 April 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150415231541/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/20-killed-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq/ 15 April 2015 live advanced and captured a checkpoint.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/24-people-killed-in-daraa-yesterday-while-the-helicopter-drop-barrel-bombs-on-al-yarmouk-camp-for-the-third-day-respectively/ 24 people killed in Daraa yesterday, while the helicopter drop barrel bombs on al- Yarmouk Camp for the third day respectively sohranas 7 April 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150414223443/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/24-people-killed-in-daraa-yesterday-while-the-helicopter-drop-barrel-bombs-on-al-yarmouk-camp-for-the-third-day-respectively/ 14 April 2015 live The same day, an ambush in Khan Arnaba, in Quneitra province, conducted by government troops left six rebels dead and many others missing.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/11-rebels-killed-by-clashes-and-ambushed-in-dara-and-quneitra/ 11 rebels killed by clashes and ambushed in Dar'a and Quneitra Master 6 April 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150417053156/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/11-rebels-killed-by-clashes-and-ambushed-in-dara-and-quneitra/ 17 April 2015 live Between 6 and 8 April, at least 35 rebels were killed during the counter-attack, which resulted in the capture of several Army checkpoints and positions.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/more-people-killed-in-daraa-and-the-government-forces-shell-areas-in-rif-dimashq-and-damascus/ More people killed in Daraa, and the government forces shell areas in Rif Dimashq and Damascus sohranas 8 April 2015 Syrian Observatory For Human Rights 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150418021500/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/more-people-killed-in-daraa-and-the-government-forces-shell-areas-in-rif-dimashq-and-damascus/ 18 April 2015 live Lajat5On 20 April, the Syrian Army, backed by the NDF and the PLA, launched a new offensive near the town of Busra al-Harir and captured five villages,http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-captures-5-villages-in-ne-daraa/ Breaking: Syrian Army Captures 5 Villages in NE Daraa Al Masdar 20 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150422101416/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-captures-5-villages-in-ne-daraa/ 22 April 2015 deadhttps://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/590205042617151489 Syrian Rebellion Obs on Twitter 21 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/590205042617151489 5 February 2016 livehttp://www.documents.sy/newsletter.php?action=download&id=1151&lang=en Syrian Army has gained full control over five towns in Dara Documents.Sy 20 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150923215619/http://www.documents.sy/newsletter.php?action=download&id=1151&lang=en 23 September 2015 dead dmy-all cutting the rebel supply line between Jordan and rebel positions in the Lajat area.http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/36-air-strikes-on-dara-since-this-morning/ 36 air strikes on Dar'a since this morning 20 April 2015 SOHR 20 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150503110603/http://www.syriahr.com/en/2015/04/36-air-strikes-on-dara-since-this-morning/ 3 May 2015 livehttp://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-syria-crisis-deraa-idUKKBN0NB1Y620150420 Syrian army says seizes villages in Deraa, cuts rebel supply line 21 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150504175914/http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/04/20/uk-syria-crisis-deraa-idUKKBN0NB1Y620150420 4 May 2015 dead An assault on Busra al-Harir itself was repelled. The next day, the Army reportedly retreated from around Busra al-Harir and the rebels re-established their supply route and liberated the five villages.https://www.facebook.com/syriahro/videos/10153299975868115/ مدير المرصد في حديثه عن المعارك في ريف درعا الشمال الشرقي SOHR 21 April 2015 37 rebelshttp://www.postbulletin.com/news/world/activists-dozens-killed-in-fighting-in-southern-syria/article_7eb4ffa4-6f81-5120-9ac5-112884e864e2.html https://archive.today/20150422082341/http://www.postbulletin.com/news/world/activists-dozens-killed-in-fighting-in-southern-syria/article_7eb4ffa4-6f81-5120-9ac5-112884e864e2.html dead Dozens killed in fighting in southern Syria, activists say - PostBull… 22 April 2015 22 April 201537 fighters from rebel and Islamic battalions killed during clashes in Dar’a https://web.archive.org/web/20150423054810/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/37-fighters-from-rebel-and-islamic-battalions-killed-during-clashes-in-dara/ 23 April 2015 and 28 soldiers were killedhttp://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-attempt-to-disrupt-rebel-supply-route-in-ne-daraa/ Syrian Armed Forces Attempt to Disrupt Rebel Supply Route in NE Dara'a 21 April 2015 21 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150524174334/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-attempt-to-disrupt-rebel-supply-route-in-ne-daraa/ 24 May 2015 dead and five Army tanks were destroyed during the operation. A number of pro-government troops were also captured, including some foreign fighters.The government troops retreat from the vicinity of Bosra al- Harir town after they lose 22 members at least https://web.archive.org/web/20150424000654/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/the-government-troops-retreat-from-the-vicinity-of-bosra-al-harir-town-after-they-lose-22-members-at-least/ 24 April 2015 Over the next 24 hours, another 37 rebels and 11 soldiers were killed, according to a military source.http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-busra-al-hareer-in-northeast-daraa/ Syrian Army Enters Busra Al-Hareer in Northeast Dara'a 22 April 2015 22 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150425013650/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-busra-al-hareer-in-northeast-daraa/ 25 April 2015 dead Analysis The offensive was seen as a strategic Axis of Resistance effort against Israel as well as an attempt to broaden the appeal of the Axis to groups such as Hamas. The leader of the Iran-backed and trained Fatemiyoun Brigade, Ali Reza Tavassoli, was killed during this battle.5 March 2015 Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Syria's Assad http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 live https://web.archive.org/web/20150306191301/http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-syrias-assad-825348817 6 March 2015 6 March 2015 Middle East Eye Following the offensive, as part of the internal disputes in regard to the Iranians, Maj. Gen. Rustum Ghazaleh was severely attacked by Lt. Gen. Rafik Shehadeh's bodyguards for disagreeing with the role of foreign forces aiding government troops, and both were reportedly fired from their positions.http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-19/291352-assad-sacks-head-of-military-security.ashx Assad sacks head of Military Security The Daily Star 19 March 2015 28 March 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150402203528/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-19/291352-assad-sacks-head-of-military-security.ashx 2 April 2015 live News emerged two months later that Ghazaleh had died after complications from a severe head wound, after having been "clinically dead" for several weeks.https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Apr-24/295615-former-syrian-intelligence-chief-in-lebanon-rustom-ghazali-has-died-media-sources.ashx Ex-Syria spy chief in Lebanon Rustom Ghazaleh has died The Daily Star 24 August 2015 24 April 2015 He did not say when Ghazaleh passed away, but that medical sources told him the ex-spy chief had been clinically dead for weeks, following a severe head injury suffered about two months ago. https://web.archive.org/web/20150425012753/http://dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Apr-24/295615-former-syrian-intelligence-chief-in-lebanon-rustom-ghazali-has-died-media-sources.ashx 25 April 2015 live Jordan signaled as a result of the offensive that it was no longer willing to tolerate the Syrian government's increasing reliance upon Iranian and Hezbollah support, with a Jordanian official stating "We cannot allow Iran to come to our backyard. They have entertained too many ideas lately with Soleimani calling the shots". New weapons and logistical support also arrived from Saudi Arabia in reaction to the increased foreign support of the Syrian government.https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402 As regional war rages, Syria's Assad faces setbacks 2 April 2015 Reuters 15 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150407220940/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/02/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402 7 April 2015 livehttps://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0MJ21I20150323 South Syrian rebels say Assad foes are supplying more arms Perry Tom Reuters 23 March 2015 4 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150407200658/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/03/23/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0MJ21I20150323 7 April 2015 live This increased support by Jordan and Saudi Arabia to opposition forces led to the rebel capture of Bosra in late Marchhttps://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ Iran Comes to the Israeli Border Williams Sarah Elizabeth Foreign Policy 25 March 2015 4 April 2015 On March 25, reportedly supported by an influx of arms from their international backers, a coalition of rebel groups were able to seize the Daraa town of Bosra al-Sham from the Syrian regime and its allies https://web.archive.org/web/20150402193248/http://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ 2 April 2015 live and the rebel takeover of the Nasib border crossing with Jordan at the beginning of April.https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2015/04/02/syrian-rebels-capture-main-border-crossing-with-jordan Bruising week for Syria's Assad as troops beaten on multiple fronts by more assertive rebels Perry Tom Al-Khalidi Suleiman U.S. News & World Report Associated Press 2 April 2015 2 April 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20150404005249/http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2015/04/02/syrian-rebels-capture-main-border-crossing-with-jordan 4 April 2015 live In the opinion of Jeffrey White from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, the offensive "produced small gains with substantial regime casualties" and the intervention of government allies, due to its declining capabilities, could not change the outcome.http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-crisis-of-the-assad-regime The Crisis of the Assad Regime The Washington Institute for Near East Policy White Jeffrey 28 May 2015 29 May 2015 Only where Hezbollah troops are directly committed to combat does the regime enjoy offensive success, and as the early spring 2015 fighting southwest of Damascus showed, not even that guarantees success. https://web.archive.org/web/20150529065825/http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-crisis-of-the-assad-regime 29 May 2015 live Notes nb Asia References 3 Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2015 Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Free Syrian Army Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving al-Nusra Front Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Quds Force Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Hezbollah