Syrian Human Rights Network Condemns Israeli Forces for Killing Civilian and Arbitrary Arrests in Beit Jinn

The Syrian Human Rights Network has documented the killing of a Syrian civilian, Mohammad Hamada, and the arbitrary arrest of seven others by Israeli forces during a raid on Beit Jinn, southwest of Damascus, on June 12, 2025. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation as a violation of international human rights law.

Key Details of the Incident 

Victim: Mohammad Hamada, a local civilian, was shot dead during the raid.

Arrests: Seven civilians, mostly from one family, were taken to an unknown location without arrest warrants or judicial oversight.

Israeli Claim: The military spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, alleged the operation targeted "Hamas operatives" and claimed weapons were seized—a statement contradicted by local witnesses who confirmed the detainees were farmers and shepherds with no militant ties.

Government Response: Syria’s transitional government denounced the raid as a "blatant assault on sovereignty" and called for international accountability.

Broader Context of Israeli Violations 

Home Demolitions: On June 16, Israeli forces demolished 15 civilian homes in Al-Hamidiyah (Quneitra), citing proximity to a new military base.

Escalating Tensions: Repeated Israeli incursions since the fall of Assad’s regime have fueled local resistance, including a recent clash in Nawa (Daraa) where nine Syrians were killed.

Unclaimed Rocket Fire: On June 3, two rudimentary rockets struck the occupied Golan from Syrian territory, heightening tensions.

International Law Violations

The Network classified the arrests as "enforced disappearances" under international law, demanding an independent investigation. Meanwhile, Israel’s expansion of military bases in the Quneitra demilitarized zone (violating the 1974 disengagement agreement) has further destabilized the region

Image credit: Syrian human rights network

Moumin Sawady