Protest rallies held in Syria against repeated Israeli incursions, attacks

Protest rallies erupted across Syria on Friday, in response to repeated Israeli incursions and attacks in the southern region. The most recent incident resulted in the death of a man with a disability. Israel's military has been conducting hundreds of strikes and frequent incursions into Syria since taking power following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. This includes frequent intrusions into Syrian territory and the occupation of the Golan Heights since 1974.

In Damascus and the central city of Homs, protesters took to the streets to denounce Israeli actions in southern provinces of Quneitra and Daraa. State media reported that demonstrators in Daraa city held hundreds, some waving the Syrian flag in solidarity. One protester, Taysir al-Hariri, told AFP that the demonstrators aimed to send a message to the world that Syria remains united against Israeli incursions and anyone attempting to undermine national security.

Footage from state television showed additional rallies with protesters carrying posters that read "We are all Moaz," in tribute to a man with special needs who Syria claimed was killed by Israeli fire during an incursion in Daraa province. In Damascus, the family of a man seized by Israel gathered outside the United Nations building, pleading for his release. Children held posters that read "I want my dad."

State media also reported that Israeli forces had advanced into part of Quneitra province, blocking several roads. Israel maintains its stance to keep troops in a "security zone" in southern Syria, aiming for a larger demilitarized area.