Despite reports suggesting the mass rallies planned in Syria and Lebanon to mark “Naksa Day” – the 44th anniversary of the Arab “downfall” in the Six Day War – were cancelled, some 500 people gathered Sunday on the Syrian side of the northern border.
According to reports, around noon, about 150 protesters made their way to the international border fence and began stoning IDF troops and attempting to cut through the fence.
IDF forces called on the demonstrators to cease their progress, before firing warning shots in mid-air. Once those were ignored as well, the troops fired at the lower extremities of several major dissidents inflaming the crowds.
Unconfirmed reports by Syrian media suggest six people, including two teens, were killed and about 100 others injured, allegedly from IDF sniper fire. Red Cross Ambulances evacuated the injured.
Syrian medical officials told Damascus TV that the Israeli soldiers “are shooting live rounds and aiming for the abdomen, chest and head.”
The IDF has not confirmed any information about casualties.
The entire parameter has been declared a restricted military zone. The military is broadcasting warnings in Arabic for the demonstrators – who have yet to reach the border-adjacent minefield – to stay away from the barbed wire fence.
Around 3pm, and at the request of the Syrian Red Cross, the IDF agreed to cease fire for a short period of time in order to facilitate the evacuation of the injured.
Nevertheless, Israel warned that should radical elements try to take advantage of the situation and storm the fence, IDF troops will not hesitate to exercise force to stop the border from being breached.
IDF and police forces have increased deployment across all sectors ahead of “Naksa Day.” The deployment includes tanks, jeeps and infantry forces. A military source said that “the tension on the border is palpable.”
A corresponding rally of about 400 people, mostly Druze and reporters, took place on the Israeli side of the border.
Ali Younis, head of the Syrian Prisoners Committee, who was among the protesters, told Syrian television that “the Israeli soldiers are using tear gas and live rounds.
“The terrorist Zionist entity is using savage means against boys, just like they do in the prisons. Despite all of this, our youth is not afraid. The moment of liberation and return to the Golan in close.”
The IDF reported that a riot also broke out near the Quneitra Crossing. IDF forces fired warning shots at them as well, reporting hitting several.
Military officials noted that Syrian security forces were doing nothing to stop the demonstrators from trying to cross the border illegally.
The defense establishment issued adamant warnings saying it will not allow any illegal entry to Israel by protesters. Forces deployed across the northern borders have been issued special crowd-control measures, and are under orders to open fire – if all else fails.
Join the official YWN WhatsApp status
6 Responses
we should thank the syrians for showing us how to deal with dissidents
B”H the Israeli government has let the soldiers do their job! Live bullets is all the arabs know, rubber bullets and stun grenades are a sign of weakness to them.
A sword to their throats, arabs.
May the government of Israel continue and not falter in the face of the enemy whose only goal is to destroy Israel and the Jewish People.
“Military officials noted that Syrian security forces were doing nothing to stop the demonstrators from trying to cross the border illegally.”
The Syrian military is using civilian proxies to due their dirty work. Do these idiots really expect to be welcomed with open arms while attempting to violate Israeli territory.
IDF we all support you !!!
The military stated that no live rounds will be used. There are no reports from the Israeli side of any casualties.
What is really sad is that these idiots just don’t get it. The day of rubber bullets are over and the IDF is finished playing. B”H for the IDF keep the good work up.