Quneitra offensive (October 2015)

The Quneitra Offensive (October 2015) was a military operation launched by Syrian rebel forces, primarily those affiliated with the Southern Front of the Free Syrian Army, against Syrian government forces and their allies in the Quneitra Governorate of southwestern Syria, particularly around the city of Quneitra and the surrounding areas near the Golan Heights ceasefire line. The offensive aimed to break the siege imposed by the Syrian Army and Hezbollah on rebel-held areas in the region, disrupt supply lines, and potentially gain control of strategic positions overlooking government-held territories.

The offensive involved heavy fighting and resulted in territorial gains and losses for both sides. Rebel groups reportedly utilized anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) effectively against Syrian Army vehicles. The Syrian government, in turn, relied on air power and artillery to bombard rebel positions. Reports indicated that clashes occurred frequently near the border with Israel, raising concerns about potential spillover into the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

Ultimately, the offensive failed to achieve its primary objective of breaking the siege. While rebel forces managed to capture some ground initially, they were unable to sustain their advances in the face of counterattacks and superior firepower from the Syrian Army and its allies. The offensive eventually stalled, resulting in a stalemate and a return to entrenched positions. The situation in the Quneitra Governorate remained tense, characterized by ongoing skirmishes and intermittent shelling. The wider Syrian Civil War continued to impact the region significantly, with various factions vying for control. The offensive highlighted the complex and volatile nature of the conflict in southwestern Syria.