2015 Southern Syria offensive

In October 2014, the rebels captured the electronic warfare station at Tal al-Harra thanks to the defection of General Mahmoud Abu Araj, who remained in his Syrian Arab Army position while passing intel to insurgent forces and sowing discord between Army forces and their Iranian allies; this led to the execution of as many as 56 Army officers in an attempt to stem the intel leaks.{{cite web |url=http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/exclusive-the-spy-who-fooled-the-assad-regime |title=Exclusive: The spy who fooled the Assad regime |work=The National |date=20 March 2015 |access-date=28 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328133327/http://www.thenational.ae/world/middle-east/exclusive-the-spy-who-fooled-the-assad-regime |archive-date=28 March 2015 |url-status=live }} The recapture of Tal al-Harra would be one of the main objectives of the coming offensive.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-advancing-towards-tal-al-harra/|title=Northern Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Advancing Towards Tal Al-Harra|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402111622/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-advancing-towards-tal-al-harra/|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead}}

The strategic aims of the offensive were the recapture of Tal al-Harra,{{cite web|url=http://www.almanar.com.lb/adetails.php?eid=1114441|title=الصحافة اليوم 12-02-2014: الجيش السوري يتقدم على الجبهة الجنوبية- أرشيف موقع قناة المنار|publisher=Al-Manar|access-date=11 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418090905/http://www.almanar.com.lb/adetails.php?eid=1114441|archive-date=18 April 2015|url-status=live}} the elimination of a perceived rebel-Israeli buffer zone protected by Al-Nusra Front forces in the area between Israel and Syria, guarding the Syrian capital of Damascus against further rebel encroachment, preventing the Syrian rebels from establishing a southeastern front in Lebanon and cutting off rebel supply lines leading to Jordan.{{cite news |url=http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4625972,00.html |title=Assad, Hezbollah, and Iran's onslaught towards Israel |publisher=Ynetnews |date=11 February 2015 |access-date=13 February 2015 |last=Kais |first=Roi |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213205937/http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4625972,00.html |archive-date=13 February 2015 |url-status=live }} An additional aim of the offensive was the creation of a Hezbollah-controlled "Golan front""Resistance front" and "third front" are also used against Israel.{{cite news |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-14/287403-many-players-in-the-deraa-campaign.ashx |title=Many players in the Deraa campaign |work=The Daily Star |date=13 February 2015 |access-date=17 February 2015 |last=Dick |first=Marlin |quote=the regime and its allies intend to 'open a second front of resistance' against Israel on the Golan Heights |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150216134447/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-14/287403-many-players-in-the-deraa-campaign.ashx |archive-date=16 February 2015 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://www.stratfor.com/sample/analysis/syria-new-battlefront-opens |title=In Syria, a New Battlefront Opens |publisher=Stratfor |date=13 February 2015 |access-date=18 February 2015 |quote=From Hezbollah's point of view, gaining a stronger position in the Golan Heights also serves its objectives towards Israel. If the offensive is successful, they will likely sustain a presence there |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218165303/https://www.stratfor.com/sample/analysis/syria-new-battlefront-opens |archive-date=18 February 2015 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.timesofisrael.com/as-hezbollah-fights-on-golan-geopolitical-lines-shift |title=As Hezbollah fights on Golan, borders are redrawn |work=The Times of Israel |date=16 February 2015 |access-date=18 February 2015 |last=Issacharoff |first=Avi |quote=on the geopolitical level, Hezbollah is trying to implement the vision only recently introduced by its leader, Hassan Nasrallah, according to whom the Syrian Golan Heights and South Lebanon are a united front |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218104749/http://www.timesofisrael.com/as-hezbollah-fights-on-golan-geopolitical-lines-shift/ |archive-date=18 February 2015 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/xinhua-news-agency/150214/roundup-5000-hezbollah-iranian-fighters-spearhead-battles-ne |title=Roundup: 5,000 Hezbollah, Iranian fighters spearhead battles near Israeli borders |work=Global Post |agency=Xinhua News Agency |date=14 February 2015 |access-date=18 February 2015 |quote=Analysts also said that Hezbollah want to show Israel that it's capable of posing threats to its borders, not only in Lebanon, but also in the Golan Heights |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219060714/http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/xinhua-news-agency/150214/roundup-5000-hezbollah-iranian-fighters-spearhead-battles-ne |archive-date=19 February 2015 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://news.yahoo.com/iran-forming-third-front-against-israel-golan-netanyahu-152818891.html |title=Iran forming 'third front' against Israel on Golan: Netanyahu |agency=AFP |date=22 February 2015 |access-date=22 February 2015 |quote=Iran is seeking to open a "third front" against Israel using Hezbollah fighters on the Syrian Golan Heights, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday}} The offensive focused on a triangle of rebel-held territory from rural areas southwest of Damascus to Daraa city to Quneitra,{{cite web|url=http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-regains-ground-rebels-south|title=Syrian Army Regains Ground from Rebels in the South|work=Al Akhbar English|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211210553/http://english.al-akhbar.com/content/syrian-army-regains-ground-rebels-south|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} with the initial focus being on seizing the villages of Kafr Shams, Zimreen and Deir al-Adas.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-offensive-northern-daraa/|title=The Syrian Army begins an offensive in northern Dara'a|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064020/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-begins-offensive-northern-daraa/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead}}

A source close to senior Hezbollah figures stated that the start date of the offensive was accelerated due to the assassination carried out by Israel in the Golan heights of several high-ranking Hezbollah and Iranian military figures.

On 7 February 2015, the Army's 5th Armored Division, along with reinforcements from the 7th Infantry Division, launched the offensive in the northern part of Daraa province. During the first day's fighting, 10 rebels were killed in clashes around Kafr Shams.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/161-%D9%82%D8%B6%D9%88%D8%A7-%D8%A3%D9%85%D8%B3%D8%8C-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%87%D9%85-57-%D9%85%D9%86-%D9%82%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B8%D8%A7%D9%85-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%B3%D9%84/|title=161 قضوا أمس، بينهم 57 من قوات النظام والمسلحين الموالين لها، و61 من الكتائب المقاتلة والكتائب الإسلامية وجبهة النصرة وتنظيم "الدولة الإسلامية". - المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان|author=Ahmad|work=المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208193641/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/161-%d9%82%d8%b6%d9%88%d8%a7-%d8%a3%d9%85%d8%b3%d8%8c-%d8%a8%d9%8a%d9%86%d9%87%d9%85-57-%d9%85%d9%86-%d9%82%d9%88%d8%a7%d8%aa-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%86%d8%b8%d8%a7%d9%85-%d9%88%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%b3%d9%84/|archive-date=8 February 2015|url-status=live}}

On 8 February, government forces bombarded multiple towns in Daraa province{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/islamic-battalions-target-regime-forces-in-dara-and-hama/|title=Islamic battalions target regime forces in Dar'a and Hama|author=Master|publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208182053/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/islamic-battalions-target-regime-forces-in-dara-and-hama/|archive-date=8 February 2015|url-status=live}} and heavy fighting ensued which left 11 rebels dead. The heaviest clashes occurred at Kafr Shams.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/11-fighters-killed-in-daraa-today/|title=11 fighters killed in Daraa today|author=sohranas|work=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|date=8 February 2015 |access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208124020/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/11-fighters-killed-in-daraa-today/|archive-date=8 February 2015|url-status=live}} The military also bombarded the towns of Om Batena and Mashara in the Quneitra province,{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-open-fire-and-shell-areas-in-the-countryside-of-daraa-and-al-quneitera/|title=The regime forces open fire and shell areas in the countryside of Daraa and al- Quneitera|author=sohranas|publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208230417/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-open-fire-and-shell-areas-in-the-countryside-of-daraa-and-al-quneitera/|archive-date=8 February 2015|url-status=live}} as the Army's 9th Division launched an offensive in that governorate as well. According to a military source, government forces captured several hills.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/patience-virtue-syrian-army-launches-offensive-al-quneitra/|title=Patience is a virtue; Syrian Army launches an offensive in Al-Quneitra|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064804/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/patience-virtue-syrian-army-launches-offensive-al-quneitra/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead}} {{anchor|Tall Marri}}{{anchor|Deir Makir}}Meanwhile, in Rif Dimashq province government troops managed to capture Tall Marri hill, but were unable to advance towards the town of Deir Makir.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/564535983920541696|title=archicivilians on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/564535983920541696|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} The capture of Tall Marri hill was significant because it cut a rebel supply line and increased the isolation of rebel-held pockets around the city of Damascus.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkEy-AOnYJw|title=الجزيرة: معارك الريف الغربي ولقاء مع قائد ميداني لألوية الفرقان|publisher=Al Jazeera|access-date=14 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014054223/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkEy-AOnYJw|archive-date=14 October 2017|url-status=live}}

{{anchor|Deir al-Adas}}On 9 February, fighting erupted in Deir Makir{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/clashes-continue-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq-more-human-losses/|title=Clashes continue in Dar'a and Reef Dimashq, more human losses|author=Master|date=9 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065425/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/clashes-continue-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq-more-human-losses/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} and around Deir al-Adas in Daraa where four rebels were killed and two Army tanks were destroyed.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/4-rebels-killed-by-clashes-in-der-al-adas-dara/|title=4 rebels killed by clashes in Der al-Adas, Dar'a|author=Master|date=9 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211073232/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/4-rebels-killed-by-clashes-in-der-al-adas-dara/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} By the end of the day, the Army, supported by the NDF, Hezbollah and Iranian fighters, advanced in the al-Ollayqat area near Deir al-Adas.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-clash-with-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-in-daraa/|title=The regime forces, backed by Hezbollah and Iranian fighters, clash with the rebel and Islamic factions in Daraa|author=sohranas|date=9 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211073401/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-clash-with-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-in-daraa/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} {{anchor|Tal Ghasham}}Military sources reported that 65% Deir al-Adas, as well as Tal Ghasham near Kafr Shams, were captured.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-offensive-northern-daraa-full-swing/|title=Syrian Army's offensive in northern Dara'a is in full-swing|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064411/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armys-offensive-northern-daraa-full-swing/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead}} {{anchor|Tayha}}The Army also captured the village of Tayha.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/564807226582630401|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/564807226582630401|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}

According to the rebels, government troops were supported by a large number of Afghan fighters as well during the offensive in Daraa and Rif Dimashq.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565206996459081728|title=archicivilians on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565206996459081728|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}

On the morning of 10 February, the Army ambushed a group of Al-Nusra Front rebels at the village of Mahjat, in northern Daraa, leaving between 8 and 19 fighters dead.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-ambush-rebels/|title=Daraa: Syrian Army ambush rebels|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064341/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-ambush-rebels/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-rebels-killed-by-an-ambush-by-regime-forces-in-dara-countryside/|title=8 rebels killed by an ambush by regime forces in Dar'a countryside|author=Master|date=10 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065354/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-rebels-killed-by-an-ambush-by-regime-forces-in-dara-countryside/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} {{anchor|Danaji}}Meanwhile, fighting in Der al-Adas left another eight rebels dead,{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-fighters-killed-in-der-al-adas-town/|title=8 fighters killed in Der al-Adas town|author=Master|date=10 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211065449/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/8-fighters-killed-in-der-al-adas-town/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} while government troops advanced and captured Deir Makir,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565021714950938624|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565021714950938624|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LE21L20150210|title=Syrian government launches offensive against rebels in south|date=10 February 2015 |work=Reuters|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001170226/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/10/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LE21L20150210|archive-date=1 October 2015|url-status=live}} al-Danaji{{cite web|url=https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/564807-hezbollah-iran-back-south-syria-offensive|title=Hezbollah, Iran back south Syria offensive|date=10 February 2015|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211074123/https://now.mmedia.me/lb/en/NewsReports/564807-hezbollah-iran-back-south-syria-offensive|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-advance-in-reef-dimashq/|title=Regime forces backed by Hezbollah and Iranian fighters advance in Reef Dimashq|author=Master|date=10 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211063115/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-backed-by-hezbollah-and-iranian-fighters-advance-in-reef-dimashq/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}} and Habariyah.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565247752901525504|title=archicivilians on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565247752901525504|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} Later the military secured Deir al-Adas,{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-map-syrian-army-captures-deir-al-adass/|title=Northern Dara'a Map: Syrian Army captures Deir Al-'Adass|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211064343/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/northern-daraa-map-syrian-army-captures-deir-al-adass/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-iranian-fighters-and-regime-forces-take-control-on-der-al-adas-town/|title=Hezbollah, Iranian fighters, and regime forces take control on Der al-Adas town|author=Master|date=11 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211132620/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-iranian-fighters-and-regime-forces-take-control-on-der-al-adas-town/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565147856336855040|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328012640/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565147856336855040|archive-date=28 March 2015|url-status=live}} with over 40 rebels and 23 soldiers being killed during the battle for the town.

During the day, government artillery and air strikes hit rebel positions in Mashara, directly east of Quneitra and Harrah, to cut off rebels in Daraa from the Golan. A reporter for the Lebanese al-Mayadeen news channel, embedded with the Syrian Army, reported from Quneitra that the offensive had cut an important rebel supply route from Jordan to opposition-held areas west of Damascus. {{anchor|Tall Ghurabah}}{{anchor|Tall Antar}}Army artillery from Tall Ghurabah hill also struck rebel positions on Tall Antar hill, near Kafr Shams, during the day.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/565146214849871872|title=Thomas van Linge on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/arabthomness/status/565146214849871872|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}

{{anchor|al-Arus}}{{anchor|al-Sarja}}{{anchor|Tell al-Mseeh}}On 11 February, the Army and Hezbollah captured the hills of al-Arus and al-Sarja,{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-and-hezbollah-take-control-on-2-hills-in-damascus-countryside/|title=Regime forces and Hezbollah take control on 2 hills in Damascus countryside|author=Master|date=11 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211144954/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/regime-forces-and-hezbollah-take-control-on-2-hills-in-damascus-countryside/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-government-troops-advancing-south-damascus-28881795|title=Syrian Troops, Hezbollah Launch Major Offensive Near Golan|work=ABC News|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150213091052/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrian-government-troops-advancing-south-damascus-28881795|archive-date=13 February 2015|url-status=dead}} near Deir Makir and al-Mseeh hill near Deir al Adas,{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/02/regime-syria-daraa-southern-front-opposition.html|title=Syria opposition forces claim regime attack in Daraa futile|publisher=Al Monitor|access-date=20 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221143418/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/02/regime-syria-daraa-southern-front-opposition.html|archive-date=21 February 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} and advanced towards Sultaniyah,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565451373014433796|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565451373014433796|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=195336&frid=23&seccatid=20&cid=23&fromval=1|title=Syrian Army Continues Campaign in South, Controls More Areas|publisher=AL-Manar|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924133136/http://www.almanar.com.lb/english/adetails.php?eid=195336&frid=23&seccatid=20&cid=23&fromval=1|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} which they bombarded. Meanwhile, Harrah residents reportedly asked rebel fighters to evacuate so to avoid any potential clashes in the town.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565468468003495937|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565468468003495937|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} At this point, the second phase of the government's Daraa offensive was started with fighting happening all along the frontline.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/565471764973907969|title=Peto Lucem on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/PetoLucem/status/565471764973907969|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} {{anchor|Tall Alaqiyah}}In Rif Dimashq, according to SOHR, fighting raged around Tall Fatima hill where a number of soldiers were captured, as well as around Hamrit with one tank being destroyed, and over Tall Antar and Tall Alaqiyah.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-gain-control-on-der-maker-clashes-continue-between-dara-and-damascus-countrysides/|title=Hezbollah gain control on Der Maker, Clashes continue between Dar'a and Damascus countrysides|author=Master|date=11 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150211185450/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-gain-control-on-der-maker-clashes-continue-between-dara-and-damascus-countrysides/|archive-date=11 February 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/markito0171/status/565491812044140544|title=markito0171 on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/markito0171/status/565491812044140544|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}

On 12 February, rapid advances by government forces slowed because of a snowstorm in the region.{{cite web|url=http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28090853/syria-rebels-call-for-help-against-assad-as-death-toll-rises |title=Syria rebels call for help against Assad as death toll rises |date=12 February 2015 |access-date=13 February 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212210558/http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28090853/syria-rebels-call-for-help-against-assad-as-death-toll-rises |archive-date=12 February 2015 }} {{anchor|Kafr Nasij}}Still, the military captured the Ghirbal area of the town of Kafr Nasij, where fighters from Deir al-Adas had retreated to and were continuing to fight. After this, the commander of the rebel FSA 24th Division issued an urgent call for reinforcements.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565770641270644736|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565770641270644736|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/samlondon06/status/565771478369853440|title=Sam on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/samlondon06/status/565771478369853440|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} {{anchor|Tall Qrein}}Fierce fighting also occurred in Sultaniyah,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565867136808398848|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/565867136808398848|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} while the Army seized Tall Fatima hill and pushed the rebels toward Tall Qrein hill.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565921659471659008|title=archicivilians on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/archicivilians/status/565921659471659008|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} Kafr Shams was also coming under attack.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566136346184777728|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=13 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566136346184777728|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}

In the following days, the rebels managed to recapture Tayha and Habariyah.{{cite journal|url=http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0311/Syrian-rebels-march-on-Damascus-becomes-fight-for-their-survival|title=Syrian rebels' march on Damascus becomes fight for their survival (+video)|author=The Christian Science Monitor|journal=The Christian Science Monitor|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171009174155/https://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2015/0311/Syrian-rebels-march-on-Damascus-becomes-fight-for-their-survival|archive-date=9 October 2017|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/|title=Map: The Military Situation in North of Daraa Province & SouthWest of RifDimashq Province - February 12, 2015|work=archicivilians|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150212201353/http://archicivilians.com/2015/02/11/map-the-military-situation-in-north-of-daraa-province-southwest-of-rifdimashq-province-february-11-2015/|archive-date=12 February 2015|url-status=usurped}}

On 14 February, government forces continued to bombard Kafr Shams, Kafr Nasij and Tall Antar hill.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/human-losses-in-eastern-ghouta-and-clashes-in-dara-countryside/|title=Human losses in Eastern Ghouta and Clashes in Dar'a countryside|author=Master|date=14 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=14 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214165226/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/human-losses-in-eastern-ghouta-and-clashes-in-dara-countryside/|archive-date=14 February 2015|url-status=live}} Two Iranian IRGC officers (one of them a colonel) were killed in Kafr Nasij that day,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566524162320379904|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=15 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/566524162320379904|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} while two reporters from the pro-government Al-Ekhbariya TV channel were wounded by rebel shelling on Deir al-Adas.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/photographers-and-reporters-of-a-tv-channel-were-wounded-in-daraa/|title=Photographers and reporters of a TV channel were wounded in Daraa|date=14 February 2015 |publisher=SOHR|access-date=15 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214223406/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/photographers-and-reporters-of-a-tv-channel-were-wounded-in-daraa/|archive-date=14 February 2015|url-status=live}} According to the SOHR, 10 soldiers were executed on the charge of passing information to the enemy, while 5,000 more reinforcements were ordered to fight the rebels in the south.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/5-%D8%A2%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%81-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%88%D8%AD%D8%B2%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8-%D8%B3/|title=5 آلاف مقاتل من إيران وحزب الله في جنوب سوريا|publisher=SOHR|access-date=15 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215161349/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/5-%D8%A2%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%81-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%84-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A5%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86-%D9%88%D8%AD%D8%B2%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8-%D8%B3/|archive-date=15 February 2015|url-status=live}} An Al-Nusra Front counter-attack on Deir al-Adas was reportedly repelled with 19 rebels and 11 soldiers being killed.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-front-launches-counter-attack-near-deir-al-adass/|title=Al-Nusra Front launches counter-attack near Deir Al-'Adass|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=16 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215162029/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-front-launches-counter-attack-near-deir-al-adass/|archive-date=15 February 2015|url-status=dead}}

On 15 February, the Syrian Air Force resumed bombing rebel positions, after being forced to remain on the ground for five days due to bad weather conditions.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/after-5-days-regime-air-forces-targets-areas-in-dara-countryside/|title=After 5 days, Regime air forces targets areas in Dar'a countryside|date=15 February 2015 |publisher=SOHR|access-date=15 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150215150111/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/after-5-days-regime-air-forces-targets-areas-in-dara-countryside/|archive-date=15 February 2015|url-status=live}} Rebels claimed to have captured a senior Iranian officer and a Russian military missile system operator on the Daraa frontline. However, the Southern Front spokesman denied the claim of Iranian prisoners, but confirmed that the bodies of the two Iranian officers were in rebel possession.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-17/287684-rebels-begin-revenge-campaign-in-aleppo.ashx|title=Rebels begin revenge campaign in Aleppo|work=The Daily Star|access-date=17 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217142114/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Feb-17/287684-rebels-begin-revenge-campaign-in-aleppo.ashx|archive-date=17 February 2015|url-status=live}}

On 17 February, a Hezbollah attack on Mashara was repelled. Still, fighting continued in the area of the village and the next day a military source reported Hezbollah had captured Syria Tel Hill.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-hezbollah-takes-control-syria-tel-hill-al-quneitra/|title=Breaking: Hezbollah takes control of Syria Tel Hill in Al-Quneitra|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=19 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218160114/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-hezbollah-takes-control-syria-tel-hill-al-quneitra/|archive-date=18 February 2015|url-status=dead}} At the same time, the al-Nusra Front started a counter-attack to recapture all ground lost since the start of the offensive and managed to advance near al-Danaji.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-nusra-front-announces-start-of-tawhid-al-raya-battle/|title=The Nusra Front announces start of "Tawhid al- Raya" battle|author=sohranas|publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=19 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218183829/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/the-nusra-front-announces-start-of-tawhid-al-raya-battle/|archive-date=18 February 2015|url-status=live}}

On 19 February, the al-Nusra Front recaptured Tall Fatima and advanced towards Deir Maker. However, after fierce resistance from the 9th Armored Division, al-Nusra retreated to the recently captured hill after suffering 22 dead.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-attempts-counter-deir-maker/|title=Dara'a : Al-Nusra Front attempts to counter at Deir Maker|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=19 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150219113009/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-attempts-counter-deir-maker/|archive-date=19 February 2015|url-status=dead}} The next day, a military source reported that Hezbollah continued their fierce assault on the al-Nusra Front south of the recently captured Syria Tel Hill, where they reportedly advanced further south in the village of Mashara, while in Al-Hamidiyyeh, the 9th Armored Division reportedly progressed towards the village cemetery after fierce clashes for two straight days.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-hezbollah-inching-closer-israeli-border/|title=Al-Quneitra: Hezbollah inching closer to the Israeli border|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=20 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150220130809/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-hezbollah-inching-closer-israeli-border/|archive-date=20 February 2015|url-status=dead}} Later in the day, the Army recaptured Tall Fatima.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-suffers-setbacks-hezbollah-advances-south/#prettyPhoto|title=Dara'a: the Al-Nusra Front suffers setbacks as Hezbollah advances south|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222132141/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-al-nusra-front-suffers-setbacks-hezbollah-advances-south/#prettyPhoto|archive-date=22 February 2015|url-status=dead}} However, on 21 February, fighting renewed for Tall Fatima.{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%AF%D9%85%D8%B4%D9%82-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%88%D9%81/|title=اشتباكات في ريف دمشق الجنوبي الغربي وفي أطراف مخيم اليرموك|author=المرصد السوري|work=المرصد السورى لحقوق الإنسان|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150221124941/http://www.syriahr.com/2015/02/%D8%A7%D8%B4%D8%AA%D8%A8%D8%A7%D9%83%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%AF%D9%85%D8%B4%D9%82-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%86%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%88%D9%81/|archive-date=21 February 2015|url-status=live}}

{{anchor|Al-Hamidiyah}}On 25 February, after three days of inactivity due to harsh weather,{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-syrian-army-hezbollah-restart-operations-province/|title=Al-Quneitra: The Syrian Army and Hezbollah Restart Operations in the Province|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226062836/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-quneitra-syrian-army-hezbollah-restart-operations-province/|archive-date=26 February 2015|url-status=dead}} Hezbollah made an attempt to capture Al-Hamidiyyeh{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-tries-to-seize-the-town-of-al-hamidiyyi/|title=Hezbollah tries to seize the town of al- Hamidiyyi|author=sohranas|publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226232833/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-tries-to-seize-the-town-of-al-hamidiyyi/|archive-date=26 February 2015|url-status=live}} and reportedly killed 16 rebels.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-fierce-clashes-flood-al-quneitra-daraa/|title=Southern Front: Fierce Clashes Flood Al-Quneitra and Dara'a|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150226074413/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-fierce-clashes-flood-al-quneitra-daraa/|archive-date=26 February 2015|url-status=dead}}

{{anchor|Sultaniyah}}{{anchor|al Fatima}}{{anchor|Habariyah}}{{anchor|Hamrit}}{{anchor|Sabsaba}}Over 27 and 28 February,{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LW0J920150228?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews|title=Syrian army takes villages in south|date=28 February 2015 |work=Reuters|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302173902/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/02/28/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0LW0J920150228?feedType=RSS&feedName=worldNews|archive-date=2 March 2015|url-status=live}} government troops captured Sultaniyah, Habariyah, Hamrit and Sabsabah, as well as Tall Qrein and Tall Fatima hills.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-3-towns-northern-daraa/|title=Breaking: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Capture 3 Towns in Northern Dara'a|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302133722/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-hezbollah-capture-3-towns-northern-daraa/|archive-date=2 March 2015|url-status=dead}} The battle for Tall Qrein lasted two hours. Heavy fighting continued in the Tal al-Allaqiya, Tal Samn, Aqrabah, Simlin{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/571647077119348736|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/571647077119348736|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}} and around Kafr Nasij and Kafr Shams where government forces attempted to advance.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-advances-and-take-control-on-3-towns-and-villages/|title=Hezbollah advances and take control on 3 towns and villages|author=Master|publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150302162215/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/hezbollah-advances-and-take-control-on-3-towns-and-villages/|archive-date=2 March 2015|url-status=live}} During the two-day clashes, at least 26 soldiers and 19–51 rebels were killed.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/26-members-of-the-regime-forces-and-allied-militiamen-killed-today/ |title=26 members of the regime forces and allied militiamen killed today |author=sohranas |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights |access-date=4 March 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915174801/http://www.syriahr.com/en/2015/03/26-members-of-the-regime-forces-and-allied-militiamen-killed-today/ |archive-date=15 September 2015 }}{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/19-fighters-of-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-killed-in-clashes-in-the-north-of-daraa/|title=19 fighters of the rebel and Islamic factions killed in clashes in the north of Daraa|author=sohranas|date=28 February 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150301150403/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/02/19-fighters-of-the-rebel-and-islamic-factions-killed-in-clashes-in-the-north-of-daraa/|archive-date=1 March 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Battle Map of Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Sweeping Through the Northern Countryside|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-map-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-sweeping-northern-countryside/|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=1 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150303152113/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/battle-map-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-sweeping-northern-countryside/|archive-date=3 March 2015|url-status=dead}}

{{anchor|Tall al-Bazzaq}}{{anchor|Tal al-Sayyad}}On 1 March, the Army made new attempts to advance at Kafr Shams,{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-in-dara-and-hasakah-countrysides/|title=Clashes in Dar'a and Hasakah countrysides|author=Master|date=March 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150304153626/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-in-dara-and-hasakah-countrysides/|archive-date=4 March 2015|url-status=live}} while they captured Tall al-Bazzaq{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Conflict_Report/status/572009779947823104|title=Conflict Reporter on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=4 March 2015}} and Rajm al-Sayd hill, also known as Tal al-Sayyad.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/572311004123680768|title=Elijah J. Magnier on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713014051/https://twitter.com/EjmAlrai/status/572311004123680768|archive-date=13 July 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.sana.sy/en/?p=30455|title=Army wrests control of key towns in several provinces|author=h.said|date=March 2015 |access-date=11 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402181022/http://www.sana.sy/en/?p=30455|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=live}} Syrian troops and Hezbollah also managed to advance to within 10 kilometers from Tal al-Harra, capturing hills overlooking it. At this point, the Army stated they had completed the first phase of their offensive, creating a buffer-zone between northwest Daraa and the West Ghouta area of Rif Dimashq. The second planned phase would be a two-pronged attack, with the 7th Division attempting to capture Kafr Shams, while Hezbollah and the 9th Division will look to capture Kafr Nasij, after which both divisions and Hezbollah would link up at ‘Aqraba. {{anchor|Umm Batinah}}{{anchor|Mashara}}A large part of the offensive would consist from the 9th Division and Hezbollah’s advance to Nabi Sakhar and their capture of ‘Umm Batna and Mashara.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-phase-ii-southern-front-offensive/|title=Syrian Army and Hezbollah Begin Phase II of Southern Front Offensive|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150305043634/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-phase-ii-southern-front-offensive/|archive-date=5 March 2015|url-status=dead}} The Syrian Brigadier General Mahmoud Mustafa (commander of a commando unit) was reportedly killed in Hebbariye, Quneitra, that day.{{cite web|url=http://www.sirajpress.com/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%84/%D8%B4%D9%8F%D9%8A%D9%91%D8%B9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%BA%D9%88%D8%B1..-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D8%B1%D8%B2-%D8%B4%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AF-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-/6106/|title=شُيّع في الشاغور.. مقتل أبرز شبيحة الاسد في القنيطرة|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402135104/http://www.sirajpress.com/%D9%85%D9%82%D8%A7%D9%84/%D8%B4%D9%8F%D9%8A%D9%91%D8%B9-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%A7%D8%BA%D9%88%D8%B1..-%D9%85%D9%82%D8%AA%D9%84-%D8%A3%D8%A8%D8%B1%D8%B2-%D8%B4%D8%A8%D9%8A%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B3%D8%AF-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%B7%D8%B1%D8%A9-/6106/|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}{{cite web|url=http://syriadailynews.com/25518|title=قناديل وطن (5)..يزيد جرجوس|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150406041521/http://syriadailynews.com/25518|archive-date=6 April 2015|url-status=live}}

On 3 March, it was reported that seven Afghan pro-government fighters were buried, including the commander of the Afghan volunteer Fatemiyoun Brigade, Alireza Tavassoli, who was killed on 28 February in Daraa province.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-03/289440-iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-for-damascus-ally.ashx|title=Iran mourns 7 Afghans killed fighting for Damascus ally|work=The Daily Star Newspaper - Lebanon|access-date=4 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403123632/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-03/289440-iran-mourns-7-afghans-killed-fighting-for-damascus-ally.ashx|archive-date=3 April 2015|url-status=live}} That day, an operation room, consisting of Jabhat al-Nusra, Ahrar ash-Sham, Jamaat Bayt al-Maqdis al-Islamiya and the Islamic Muthanna Movement, was established in Daraa. The Free Syrian Army's First Army played a secondary role in this operation room. The reason for this, was the repeated failures to repel government attacks and the lack of unity among the moderate rebel groups. Most of the Southern Front affiliated groups refused to play a significant role in the battle.{{cite web|url=http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-southern-front-differences.html#|title=Syria dissident groups still not united |publisher=Al-Monitor|access-date=1 May 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150717151202/http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/security/2015/03/syria-southern-front-differences.html|archive-date=17 July 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}{{cite web|url=http://www.mei.edu/content/article/isis-and-syria%E2%80%99s-southern-front|title=ISIS and Syria's Southern Front|publisher=Middle East Institute|access-date=11 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180704093120/http://www.mei.edu/content/article/isis-and-syria%E2%80%99s-southern-front|archive-date=4 July 2018|url-status=live}}

The second phase of the offensive started 4 March, with the military and Hezbollah attacking Tal Al-Mal, Kafr Shams and Kafr Nasij at the same time. At Tal Al-Mal, they reportedly managed to break through rebel defenses, while the clashes at Kafr Shams left 17 rebels and 8 soldiers dead, according to a military source.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-creeping-closer-tal-al-harra/|title=Southern Front (Dara'a) Syrian Army and Hezbollah are Creeping Closer to Tal Al-Harra|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=11 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190719103147/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/southern-front-daraa-syrian-army-hezbollah-creeping-closer-tal-al-harra/|archive-date=19 July 2019|url-status=dead}}

On 11 March, the Syrian Air Force bombed the headquarters of the First Army in the southern countryside of Quneitra, killing a number of rebels including the First Army's commander.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/|title=Clashes and bombardment continue in the triangle of Dar'a-Quneitra-Reef Diamshq|author=Master|date=11 March 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=11 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150322185627/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/03/clashes-and-bombardment-continue-in-the-triangle-of-dara-quneitra-reef-diamshq/|archive-date=22 March 2015|url-status=live}} Four days later, Lebanese, Hezbollah-affiliated, television station Al-Manar reported that 120 Jabhat al-Nusra fighters, including three field commanders, were killed in another air-raid in Quneitra province.{{cite web|url=https://en.abna24.com/service/middle-east-west-asia/archive/2015/03/15/677006/story.html|title=Syrian Army Strikes Terrorists in Quneitra Countryside: 120 Killed, Injured}}

On 13 March, after almost two weeks of fighting, the military reportedly advanced towards the southwestern part of Kafr Nasij.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-and-hezbollah-advance-at-kafr-nissaj/|title=Dara'a: Syrian Army and Hezbollah Advance at Kafr Nissaj|author=Leith Fadel|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402121325/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/daraa-syrian-army-and-hezbollah-advance-at-kafr-nissaj/|archive-date=2 April 2015|url-status=dead}}

On 6 April, rebels launched a counter-attack in the Kafr Shams area,{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/585081505174712320|title=Syrian Rebellion Obs on Twitter|publisher=Twitter|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/585081505174712320|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/20-killed-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq/|title=20 killed in Dar'a and Reef Dimashq|author=Master|date=6 April 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150415231541/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/20-killed-in-dara-and-reef-dimashq/|archive-date=15 April 2015|url-status=live}} advanced and captured a checkpoint.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/24-people-killed-in-daraa-yesterday-while-the-helicopter-drop-barrel-bombs-on-al-yarmouk-camp-for-the-third-day-respectively/|title=24 people killed in Daraa yesterday, while the helicopter drop barrel bombs on al- Yarmouk Camp for the third day respectively|author=sohranas|date=7 April 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414223443/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/24-people-killed-in-daraa-yesterday-while-the-helicopter-drop-barrel-bombs-on-al-yarmouk-camp-for-the-third-day-respectively/|archive-date=14 April 2015|url-status=live}} The same day, an ambush in Khan Arnaba, in Quneitra province, conducted by government troops left six rebels dead and many others missing.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/11-rebels-killed-by-clashes-and-ambushed-in-dara-and-quneitra/|title=11 rebels killed by clashes and ambushed in Dar'a and Quneitra|author=Master|date=6 April 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150417053156/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/11-rebels-killed-by-clashes-and-ambushed-in-dara-and-quneitra/|archive-date=17 April 2015|url-status=live}} Between 6 and 8 April, at least 35 rebels were killed during the counter-attack, which resulted in the capture of several Army checkpoints and positions.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/more-people-killed-in-daraa-and-the-government-forces-shell-areas-in-rif-dimashq-and-damascus/|title=More people killed in Daraa, and the government forces shell areas in Rif Dimashq and Damascus|author=sohranas|date=8 April 2015 |publisher=Syrian Observatory For Human Rights|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418021500/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/more-people-killed-in-daraa-and-the-government-forces-shell-areas-in-rif-dimashq-and-damascus/|archive-date=18 April 2015|url-status=live}}

{{anchor|Lajat5}}On 20 April, the Syrian Army, backed by the NDF and the PLA, launched a new offensive near the town of Busra al-Harir and captured five villages,{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-captures-5-villages-in-ne-daraa/|title=Breaking: Syrian Army Captures 5 Villages in NE Daraa|publisher=Al Masdar|access-date=20 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150422101416/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/breaking-syrian-army-captures-5-villages-in-ne-daraa/|archive-date=22 April 2015|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/590205042617151489|title=Syrian Rebellion Obs on Twitter|access-date=21 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160205021406/https://twitter.com/Syria_Rebel_Obs/status/590205042617151489|archive-date=5 February 2016|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.documents.sy/newsletter.php?action=download&id=1151&lang=en|title=Syrian Army has gained full control over five towns in Dara|publisher=Documents.Sy|access-date=20 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923215619/http://www.documents.sy/newsletter.php?action=download&id=1151&lang=en|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}} cutting the rebel supply line between Jordan and rebel positions in the Lajat area.{{cite web|url=http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/36-air-strikes-on-dara-since-this-morning/|title=36 air strikes on Dar'a since this morning|date=20 April 2015 |publisher=SOHR|access-date=20 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150503110603/http://www.syriahr.com/en/2015/04/36-air-strikes-on-dara-since-this-morning/|archive-date=3 May 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-syria-crisis-deraa-idUKKBN0NB1Y620150420|title=Syrian army says seizes villages in Deraa, cuts rebel supply line|access-date=21 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150504175914/http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/04/20/uk-syria-crisis-deraa-idUKKBN0NB1Y620150420|archive-date=4 May 2015|url-status=dead}} An assault on Busra al-Harir itself was repelled. The next day, the Army reportedly retreated from around Busra al-Harir and the rebels re-established their supply route and liberated the five villages.{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/syriahro/videos/10153299975868115/|title=مدير المرصد في حديثه عن المعارك في ريف درعا الشمال الشرقي|publisher=SOHR|access-date=21 April 2015}} 37 rebels{{cite web|url=http://www.postbulletin.com/news/world/activists-dozens-killed-in-fighting-in-southern-syria/article_7eb4ffa4-6f81-5120-9ac5-112884e864e2.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20150422082341/http://www.postbulletin.com/news/world/activists-dozens-killed-in-fighting-in-southern-syria/article_7eb4ffa4-6f81-5120-9ac5-112884e864e2.html|url-status=dead|title=Dozens killed in fighting in southern Syria, activists say - PostBull…|date=22 April 2015|archive-date=22 April 2015}}[http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/37-fighters-from-rebel-and-islamic-battalions-killed-during-clashes-in-dara/ 37 fighters from rebel and Islamic battalions killed during clashes in Dar’a] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150423054810/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/37-fighters-from-rebel-and-islamic-battalions-killed-during-clashes-in-dara/ |date=23 April 2015 }} and 28 soldiers were killed{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-attempt-to-disrupt-rebel-supply-route-in-ne-daraa/|title=Syrian Armed Forces Attempt to Disrupt Rebel Supply Route in NE Dara'a|date=21 April 2015|access-date=21 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524174334/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-armed-forces-attempt-to-disrupt-rebel-supply-route-in-ne-daraa/|archive-date=24 May 2015|url-status=dead}} and five Army tanks were destroyed during the operation. A number of pro-government troops were also captured, including some foreign fighters.[http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/the-government-troops-retreat-from-the-vicinity-of-bosra-al-harir-town-after-they-lose-22-members-at-least/ The government troops retreat from the vicinity of Bosra al- Harir town after they lose 22 members at least] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150424000654/http://syriahr.com/en/2015/04/the-government-troops-retreat-from-the-vicinity-of-bosra-al-harir-town-after-they-lose-22-members-at-least/ |date=24 April 2015 }} Over the next 24 hours, another 37 rebels and 11 soldiers were killed, according to a military source.{{cite web|url=http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-busra-al-hareer-in-northeast-daraa/|title=Syrian Army Enters Busra Al-Hareer in Northeast Dara'a|date=22 April 2015|access-date=22 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150425013650/http://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-enters-busra-al-hareer-in-northeast-daraa/|archive-date=25 April 2015|url-status=dead}}

The offensive was seen as a strategic Axis of Resistance effort against Israel as well as an attempt to broaden the appeal of the Axis to groups such as Hamas,

Following the offensive, as part of the internal disputes in regard to the Iranians, Maj. Gen. Rustum Ghazaleh was severely attacked by Lt. Gen. Rafik Shehadeh's bodyguards for disagreeing with the role of foreign forces aiding government troops, and both were reportedly fired from their positions.{{cite web |url=http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-19/291352-assad-sacks-head-of-military-security.ashx |title=Assad sacks head of Military Security |work=The Daily Star |date=19 March 2015 |access-date=28 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402203528/http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2015/Mar-19/291352-assad-sacks-head-of-military-security.ashx |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=live }} News emerged two months later that Ghazaleh had died after complications from a severe head wound, after having been "clinically dead" for several weeks.{{cite news |url=https://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Apr-24/295615-former-syrian-intelligence-chief-in-lebanon-rustom-ghazali-has-died-media-sources.ashx |title=Ex-Syria spy chief in Lebanon Rustom Ghazaleh has died |work=The Daily Star |date=24 August 2015 |access-date=24 April 2015 |quote=He did not say when Ghazaleh passed away, but that medical sources told him the ex-spy chief had been clinically dead for weeks, following a severe head injury suffered about two months ago. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150425012753/http://dailystar.com.lb/News/Lebanon-News/2015/Apr-24/295615-former-syrian-intelligence-chief-in-lebanon-rustom-ghazali-has-died-media-sources.ashx |archive-date=25 April 2015 |url-status=live }}

Jordan signaled as a result of the offensive that it was no longer willing to tolerate the Syrian government's increasing reliance upon Iranian and Hezbollah support, with a Jordanian official stating "We cannot allow Iran to come to our backyard. They have entertained too many ideas lately with Soleimani calling the shots". New weapons and logistical support also arrived from Saudi Arabia in reaction to the increased foreign support of the Syrian government.{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402|title=As regional war rages, Syria's Assad faces setbacks|date=2 April 2015 |work=Reuters|access-date=15 April 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150407220940/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/02/us-mideast-crisis-syria-idUSKBN0MT1R420150402|archive-date=7 April 2015|url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0MJ21I20150323 |title=South Syrian rebels say Assad foes are supplying more arms |last=Perry |first=Tom |publisher=Reuters |date=23 March 2015 |access-date=4 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150407200658/http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/03/23/us-mideast-crisis-syria-south-idUSKBN0MJ21I20150323 |archive-date=7 April 2015 |url-status=live }} This increased support by Jordan and Saudi Arabia to opposition forces led to the rebel capture of Bosra in late March{{cite news |url=https://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ |title=Iran Comes to the Israeli Border |last=Williams |first=Sarah Elizabeth |work=Foreign Policy |date=25 March 2015 |access-date=4 April 2015 |quote=On March 25, reportedly supported by an influx of arms from their international backers, a coalition of rebel groups were able to seize the Daraa town of Bosra al-Sham from the Syrian regime and its allies |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402193248/http://foreignpolicy.com/2015/03/25/iran-comes-to-the-israeli-border-shiite-hezbollah-syria/ |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=live }} and the rebel takeover of the Nasib border crossing with Jordan at the beginning of April.{{cite news |url=https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2015/04/02/syrian-rebels-capture-main-border-crossing-with-jordan |title=Bruising week for Syria's Assad as troops beaten on multiple fronts by more assertive rebels |last1=Perry |first1=Tom |last2=Al-Khalidi |first2=Suleiman |work=U.S. News & World Report |agency=Associated Press |date=2 April 2015 |access-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404005249/http://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2015/04/02/syrian-rebels-capture-main-border-crossing-with-jordan |archive-date=4 April 2015 |url-status=live }}

In the opinion of Jeffrey White from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, the offensive "produced small gains with substantial regime casualties" and the intervention of government allies, due to its declining capabilities, could not change the outcome.{{cite web |url=http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-crisis-of-the-assad-regime |title=The Crisis of the Assad Regime |publisher=The Washington Institute for Near East Policy |last=White |first=Jeffrey |date=28 May 2015 |access-date=29 May 2015 |quote=Only where Hezbollah troops are directly committed to combat does the regime enjoy offensive success, and as the early spring 2015 fighting southwest of Damascus showed, not even that guarantees success. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529065825/http://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/view/the-crisis-of-the-assad-regime |archive-date=29 May 2015 |url-status=live }}

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{{Syrian Civil War}}

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2015

Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Free Syrian Army

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