Key facts
- Turkiye and several Arab nations condemned Israeli incursions into Syria's Quneitra and Deraa provinces.
- Condemnations cited violations of Syrian sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law.
- Saudi Arabia rejected Israeli intimidation of civilians.
- The UAE highlighted violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement.
- Arab League and GCC officials warned of potential wider regional conflict and increased instability.
Turkiye and a number of Arab nations and organizations have issued condemnations regarding Israel's recent incursions and attacks in the southern Syrian provinces of Quneitra and Deraa.
Türkiye stated that Israel's actions infringed upon Syria's territorial integrity, unity, and sovereignty, negatively impacting civilians and exacerbating regional conditions. Saudi Arabia expressed its "total rejection" of what it termed Israeli forces intimidating civilians, condemning the violations of international law. Qatar described the incursions as a "flagrant violation of Syria’s sovereignty and a blatant breach of international law." Kuwait indicated that the continued attacks hinder efforts to maintain regional security and stability.
The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that the incursions constituted a clear violation of international law and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Syria and Israel. Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit cautioned that the ongoing Israeli military operations in Syria could potentially trigger a broader regional conflict. Similarly, Gulf Cooperation Council secretary general Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi characterized the incursions as a "flagrant violation" of Syrian sovereignty and a "dangerous escalation" likely to intensify tensions and instability throughout the region.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa stated that Syria "is neither a testing ground for foreign conspiracies nor a venue for carrying out the ambitions of others," according to Al Mayadeen. He also condemned Israeli attacks as incursions continue in southern parts of the country. On Monday, residents near the occupied Golan Heights were forced to flee their homes, while Syria's Foreign Ministry condemned "the Israeli aggressions," calling them "a flagrant violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity." Al-Sharaa added that Syria remains committed to its "territorial integrity and stability."