The Free Syrian Army fighters repelled a regime offensive in eastern rural Dara’a yesterday, destroying seven army vehicles and killing dozens of pro-Assad militants.
The regime offensive was aimed to recapture the towns of Busra al-Harir, Al-Lajat, and Malihat al-Atash in eastern rural Dara’a, but was met with fierce resistance by the FSA fighters who killed the commander of the campaign, captured a number of foreign mercenaries and captured weapons and ammunition. The attacking forces retreated to the 12th Brigade and the old headquarters of the 5th Division.
Pro-regime media outlets broadcasted a statement claiming the offensive achieved its goals, a claim that was belied by the FSA fighters who aired footage showing dozens of dead and captured pro-regime militants and burned tanks.
The FSA fighters then went on the offensive and advanced on Al Ma’asara checkpoint near Malihat al-Atash where violent clashes took place ending in the FSA’s capture of equipment and ammunition.
The importance of Busra al-Harir lies halfway on the road linking Al Swaidaa’ and the town of Izraa’ in northeastern Dara’a. It has been liberated since late 2013 following two-month long battles. (Source: Syrian Coalition)
