The southwestern Syrian regions of Quneitra and Daraa, vital agricultural areas, face a worsening crisis as Israeli occupation forces escalate their activities following the removal of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

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Recent developments include the leveling of farmlands and the destruction of fruit-bearing trees in villages within the affected areas. Reports indicate that Israeli forces have reinforced military positions near Al-Mantara Dam in the Umm al-Azm region, further restricting access to the land for local residents.

The fertile agricultural lands of Quneitra and Daraa, particularly those dedicated to olive cultivation, have been significantly damaged. Farmers are unable to perform their usual agricultural duties due to the heavy presence of Israeli patrols, which obstruct their access to fields and orchards.

According to Al-Arabi Al-Yadid, the situation has deeply affected local livelihoods. Omar Al-Muhasna, a Syrian resident from a border village, expressed concern over the destruction of crops and the establishment of Israeli military bases in over a dozen villages in Al-Quneitra, as well as three towns near Daraa.

These regions are critical to Syria’s food security, with over 90% of the population in Quneitra and Daraa relying on agriculture as their primary source of income. Approximately 70% of the land in these areas is dedicated to cereal production, making them Syria’s breadbasket.

The region’s fertile volcanic soil, found in the Yarmouk Valley at altitudes of up to 950 meters, has historically supported robust agricultural activities. However, ongoing territorial incursions and Israeli airstrikes on Syrian military zones have exacerbated the humanitarian and economic crisis.

Israeli actions sharply contrast with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s earlier assurances that his administration would not interfere in Syria’s internal affairs. The recent incursions and destruction of agricultural land directly contradict these claims, raising concerns about long-term stability in the region.

The destruction of agricultural lands threatens not only local farmers but also the food security of the entire country. As farming communities grapple with the loss of their livelihoods, the ripple effects could exacerbate Syria’s already precarious humanitarian situation.

The first Israeli incursions were reported on September 15, 2024, penetrating 200 meters into Syrian territory west of Jubata al-Khashab in Quneitra. Since then, the occupation has steadily expanded, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.

The international community must urgently address this escalating crisis, which poses significant risks to Syria’s agricultural output and food security. The plight of farmers in Quneitra and Daraa is a stark reminder of the broader humanitarian challenges faced by the region amidst ongoing conflict and occupation.

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