View source for Daraa offensive (February–June 2017)

{{Short description|Military operation}}
{{Infobox military conflict
|conflict= Daraa offensive (February–June 2017)
|partof= the [[Daraa Governorate campaign]] of the [[Syrian Civil War]]
|image=[[File:Battle of Daraa City map version from 21 April 2017.svg|border|300px]]
|caption=Map of the situation in Daraa city, as of 21 April 2017
|date='''First Phase:'''<br> 12 February – 8 March 2017<br>({{Age in months, weeks and days|month1=02|day1=12|year1=2017|month2=03|day2=08|year2=2017}})<br>'''Second Phase:'''<br> 6–26 April 2017<br>({{Age in months, weeks and days|month1=04|day1=06|year1=2017|month2=04|day2=26|year2=2017}})<br>'''Third Phase:'''<br> 24 May – 6 June 2017<br>({{Age in months, weeks and days|month1=05|day1=24|year1=2017|month2=06|day2=06|year2=2017}})
|place= [[Daraa]], [[Daraa Governorate]], [[Syria]]
|territory=
|result= Rebel victory<ref name=teetering/><ref>{{cite web |title=Syrian army and allies step up bombing of rebels in Deraa city |website=[[Reuters]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220929062730/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-deraa-idUSKBN19305V |archive-date=2022-09-29 |url-status=live |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-deraa-idUSKBN19305V}}</ref>
*Rebels initially captures a large part of the al-Manishiyah District,<ref name=tables/> but the offensive soon stalled
*The Syrian Army recaptures almost all lost positions,<ref name="modest"/> leaving less than 25% of al-Manishiyah rebel-held<ref name=field/>
*Renewed rebel attack leaves the rebels in control of 95% of al-Manishiyah<ref name=teetering/>
|status=
|combatant1= {{flagicon image|Bunyan al-Marsous.png}} '''Bunyan al-Marsous operations room'''<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/02/treasury-sanctions-2-senior-leaders-in-al-qaedas-syrian-branch.php |title= Treasury, UN sanction 2 senior leaders in al Qaeda's Syrian branch |last=Joscelyn |first=Thomas |date=February 24, 2017 |website=Long War Journal|publisher=Foundation for Defense of Democracies }}</ref>
*{{flagicon image|}} '''[[Tahrir al-Sham]]'''<ref>{{cite web |url=https://twitter.com/Charles_Lister/status/831564192134094848 |title=Charles Lister |last=Lister|first=Charles|date=14 Feb 2017 |website=Twitter  }}</ref>
*{{flagicon image|Flag of Ahrar ash-Sham.svg}} [[Ahrar al-Sham]]<ref name=punishing>{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/regime-escalates-punishing-campaign-on-daraa-city-after-rebels-bet-on-risky-offensive-to-keep-jordan-border-point/|title=Regime escalates punishing campaign on Daraa city after rebels bet on risky offensive to keep Jordan border point|work=Syria:direct|date=14 February 2017}}</ref>
*{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} [[Free Syrian Army]]<ref name=punishing/>
*{{flagicon image|Logo of Jaysh al-Islam.jpg}} [[Jaysh al-Islam]]<ref name="long">{{cite web|url=http://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2017/02/jihadists-and-other-rebels-assault-syrian-regime-positions-in-southern-city.php|title=Jihadists and other rebels assault Syrian regime positions in southern city|work=Long War Journal|author=THOMAS JOSCELYN|date=13 February 2017}}</ref>
*[[Jabhat Ansar al-Islam]]
*[[Alwiya al-Furqan]]
*{{flagicon|Islamic State}} Jamaat Bayt al-Maqdis al-Islamiya<ref name="illustrates">{{cite web|url=http://en.eldorar.com/node/4808|title=Al-Bonyan al-Mrsous illustrates the reason for the battle, "Death vs Humiliating"|publisher=El-Dorar Al-Shamia|date=17 February 2017|access-date=19 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170602110428/http://en.eldorar.com/node/4808|archive-date=2 June 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|combatant2={{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syria.svg}} '''[[Syrian Arab Republic]]'''
*{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Arab Armed Forces.svg}} [[Syrian Armed Forces]]
{{flag|Iran}}<ref name="IRGC">{{cite web|url=http://en.eldorar.com/node/4797|title=Iranian leader close to Soleimani killed in Daraa battles|publisher=El-Dorar Al-Shamia|date=16 February 2017|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180709064753/https://eldorar.com/en/node/4797 |archive-date=9 July 2018 }}</ref><br/>{{flag|Russia}}<ref name=russia>{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-mideast-crisis-syria-deraa-idUKKBN15T2XW|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170214230914/http://uk.reuters.com/article/uk-mideast-crisis-syria-deraa-idUKKBN15T2XW|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 14, 2017|title=Russian jets pound Syrian city of Deraa after rebel gains|work=Reuters|date=14 February 2017}}</ref><br/>{{flagicon image|InfoboxHez.PNG}} [[Hezbollah]]<ref name="execute officer">{{cite web|url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/25260.html|title=Daraa: rebels kill 7 regime troops, Hezbollah executes army officer|publisher=Zaman al-Wasl|date=14 April 2017|access-date=15 April 2017}}</ref><br/> [[Fatah al-Intifada]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.actionpal.org.uk/en/post/5255/action-group-for-palestinians-of-syria/palestinian-refugee-killed-in-pro-gov-t-battles |title=Palestinian Refugee Killed in Pro-Gov't Battles |work=Action Group for Palestinians of Syria |date=31 May 2017 |access-date=18 March 2018}}</ref>
|commander1= {{flagicon image|}} Ibrahim Abdullah<ref name=russia/><br><small>(senior rebel commander)</small><br>{{flagicon image|}} Abu Shaimaa<ref name=punishing/><br><small>(Banyan al-Marsous operations room spokesman & commander)</small><br>{{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} Umran Tawfiq Al-Amri{{KIA}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-mourn-death-top-commander-daraa/|title=Jihadist rebels mourn the death of top commander in Daraa|first=Al-Masdar|last=News|date=16 April 2017|publisher=[[Al-Masdar News]]|access-date=27 May 2017|archive-date=17 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517110237/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-mourn-death-top-commander-daraa/|url-status=dead}}</ref><small>(Ahfad Al-Rasoul Brigade commander)</small>
|commander2={{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syria.svg}} Brig. Gen. Issa Abdul Karim Mohammed{{KIA}}<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/IvanSidorenko1/status/830890719451676672|title=Ivan Sidorenko on Twitter|access-date=2017-02-19|archive-date=2017-03-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170313081535/https://twitter.com/ivansidorenko1/status/830890719451676672|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Terminates">{{cite web|url=http://en.eldorar.com/node/4825|title="Al-Bonyan Al-Marsous" Terminates 1st.& 2nd. Phases killing100 soldiers of Assad Regime|publisher=El-Dorar Al-Shamia|date=19 February 2017|access-date=19 February 2017}}{{Dead link|date=November 2019 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><br/>{{flagicon image|Flag_of_Syria.svg}} Unidentified Syrian Army lieutenant colonel{{Executed}}<ref name="execute officer" /><br/>{{flagicon|Iran}} Col. Mustafa Zal Nejad{{KIA}}<ref name="IRGC" /><br><small>(IRGC commander)</small>
|units1={{flagicon|Syrian opposition}} [[Free Syrian Army]]<ref name="twitter.com">{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/badly_xeroxed/status/832614244776558592/photo/1|title=Коуди Роша on Twitter}}</ref>
*{{flagicon image|Logo of the Southern Front.png}} [[Southern Front of the Free Syrian Army|Southern Front]]<ref name="twitter.com"/>
**[[Alliance of Southern Forces]]
***[[Omari Brigades]]
***Free Nawa Division
***Houran Column Division
** [[Revolution Army (Syria)|Revolution Army]]
*** Mu'tazz Billah Army
** [[First Corps (Syrian rebel group)|First Corps]]
*** Dawn of Liberation Division
** [[Youth of Sunna Forces]]
** Southern Brigades
*** Aisha, Mother of Believers Brigade
** [[18 March Division]]
***Engineering and Rocket Battalion<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnoYWoLzbk8|title=كتيبة الهندسة و الصواريخ - دك محطة المحروقات بجانب فرع المخابرات الجوية بصاروخي عاصفة|last=كتيبة الهندسة و الصواريخ|date=28 July 2015|via=YouTube}}</ref>
* [[Army of Free Tribes]]
{{flagicon image|Flag of Ahrar ash-Sham.svg}} [[Ahrar al-Sham]]
|units2={{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Arab Army.svg}} [[Syrian Army]]
*[[5th Armoured Division (Syria)|5th Armoured Division]]<ref name=20j>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/20-jihadist-rebels-killed-failed-daraa-offensive/|title=More than 20 jihadist rebels killed in failed Daraa offensive|work=Al-Masdar News|author=Leith Fadel|date=12 February 2017|access-date=13 February 2017|archive-date=1 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401141933/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/20-jihadist-rebels-killed-failed-daraa-offensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
**15th Mechanized Brigade
** [[File:Syrian Republican Guard Symbol.svg|17px]] [[Republican Guard (Syria)|Republican Guard]]<ref name=entirety>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/exclusive-syrian-army-prepares-capture-entirety-daraa/|title=Exclusive: Syrian Army prepares to capture the entirety of Dara'a|first=Izat|last=Charkatli|date=25 February 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar News|access-date=21 March 2017|archive-date=15 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190415073043/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/exclusive-syrian-army-prepares-capture-entirety-daraa/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
{{flagicon image|Flag of the Syrian Air Force.svg}} [[Syrian Air Force]]<br>
{{flagicon image|InfoboxNDF.png}} [[National Defence Forces (Syria)|National Defence Forces]]<br>
{{flagicon|Iran}} [[Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps|IRGC]]
*[[Ground Forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps|IRGC Ground Forces]]<ref name="IRGC" />
* Syrian auxiliaries
** 313 Battalion<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/03/the-313-battalion-a-syrian-islamic-resistance |title=The 313 Battalion: A Syrian 'Islamic Resistance' Formation |author=Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi |date=30 March 2017|access-date=9 October 2017}}</ref>
** Ali Sultan Battalion<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aymennjawad.org/2017/06/katibat-ali-sultan-syrian-irgc-group |title=Katibat Ali Sultan: Syrian IRGC Group |author=Aymenn Jawad Al-Tamimi |date=5 October 2017|access-date=9 October 2017}}</ref>
{{flagicon image|Banner of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation (obverse).svg}} [[Russian Armed Forces]]
*{{flagicon image|Flag of the Russian Air Force.svg}} [[Russian Air Force]]<ref>{{cite news |last=Al-Khalidi |first=Suleiman |date=15 February 2017 |title=Russia strikes Syria after 'Death Over Humiliation' rebel battle |url=http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2017/02/15/Russian-jets-pound-Syrian-city-of-Deraa-after-rebel-gains.html |newspaper=Reuters  |location=Amman  }}</ref>
|strength1=
|strength2=
|casualties1=278+ killed <small>(per gov. sources)</small><ref>200 killed (12–15 February),{{cn|date=April 2020}} 40 killed (25 March),[https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-russian-airstrikes-pummel-islamist-rebels/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326000325/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-russian-airstrikes-pummel-islamist-rebels/ |date=2017-03-26 }} 15+ killed (25 April),[https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-new-offensive-daraa-capture-important-district/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425203615/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-new-offensive-daraa-capture-important-district/ |date=2017-04-25 }} 8 killed (26 April),[https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-forces-pay-big-price-gains-daraa-city-full-report/] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170427063547/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-forces-pay-big-price-gains-daraa-city-full-report/ |date=2017-04-27 }} 15 killed (3 June),[http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=67577] total of 278+ reported killed</ref>
|casualties2=~300 killed, 500+ wounded <small>(per the rebels)</small><ref name=roars>{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/%E2%80%98relative-calm%E2%80%99-fades-in-syrias-south-as-daraa-city-fighting-roars-once-again/|title='Relative calm' fades in Syria's south as Daraa city fighting roars once again|website=Syria Direct|access-date=2017-06-07|archive-date=2017-07-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170715083422/http://syriadirect.org/news/%e2%80%98relative-calm%e2%80%99-fades-in-syrias-south-as-daraa-city-fighting-roars-once-again/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=14 April 2017 |title=Daraa: rebels kill 7 regime troops, Hezbollah executes army officer |url=https://en.zamanalwsl.net/news/25260.html |newspaper=Zaman Al Wasl }}</ref>
|casualties3=12+ civilians killed<ref name=punishing/>
| campaignbox = {{Campaignbox Syrian Civil War}}
{{Campaignbox Daraa Campaign}}
}}
The '''Daraa offensive (February–June 2017)''', [[code name]]d as the battle of '''"Death Rather than Humiliation"''' ({{langx|ar|الموت ولا المذلة}}) by the rebels,<ref name=russia/> was a military operation launched by [[Syrian rebel]]s against positions of the [[Syrian Arab Army]] in the Manshiyah District of [[Daraa]] city, in southern [[Syria]], during the [[Syrian Civil War]].
==Background==
In the first half of 2016, [[Daraa offensive (March–April 2016)|heavy fighting]] had taken place between (and also within) factions connected to ISIS, on one side, and [[Jabhat al-Nusra]] and [[Free Syrian Army]] factions, on the other. At the end of this period, the rebels emerged victorious but ISIS had made some advances. Several rebel groups formed the al-Bunyan al-Marsous Operations Room (BM) in June 2016, composed of several [[Southern Front of the Free Syrian Army|Southern Front]] factions and Islamist groups [[Jaish al-Islam]], [[Ahrar al-Sham]] and a small al-Nusra contingent.<ref>Gregory Waters [https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2017/09/11/battle-manshiyah-victory-100-pictures/ The Battle for Manshiyah: A Victory in 100 Pictures], ''[[Bellingcat]]'' September 11, 2017</ref> In February 2017, this coalition (with al-Nusra now re-constituted as [[Tahrir al-Sham]] or HTS) started advancing on government-held territory in Daraa.{{Citation needed|date=June 2018}}
==The offensive==
===Initial rebel gains===
On 12 February 2017, two [[suicide bomber]]s from [[Tahrir al-Sham|Hayat Tahrir al-Sham]], at least one of them a Jordanian [[Foreign fighters in the Syrian and Iraqi Civil Wars|foreign fighter]],<ref name="long"/> launched two [[car bomb]]s at Syrian Army positions in the Al-Manshiyah district of southern Daraa city. Syrian government sources reported that both vehicles were destroyed before they could reach their target,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-led-offensive-against-the-syrian-army-in-daraa-spectacularly-fails/|title=Al-Nusra led offensive against the Syrian Army in Daraa spectacularly fails|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|author=Paul Antonopoulos|date=12 February 2017|access-date=13 February 2017|archive-date=20 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181120080421/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/al-nusra-led-offensive-against-the-syrian-army-in-daraa-spectacularly-fails/|url-status=dead}}</ref> while the rebel coalition Al-Bunyan al-Marsous (BM) claimed four government fighters were killed.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah">Gregory Waters [https://www.bellingcat.com/news/mena/2017/09/11/battle-manshiyah-victory-100-pictures/ The Battle for Manshiyah: A Victory in 100 Pictures], ''[[Bellingcat]]'' September 11, 2017</ref> The frontlines in the city were lined with [[fortification]]s, and the rebels did not make any gains. The Army launched [[artillery]] and "Elephant" [[lob bomb]]s at rebel positions after they repelled the assault.<ref name=sham>{{cite web |url=http://www.shaam.org/news/syria-news/الموت-ولا-المذلة-حي-المنشية-محط-أنظار-ثوار-درعا-والمعارك-مستمرة.html |title=Death and humiliation ... Mansheya neighborhood, the focus of rebel shield and ongoing battles|work=Sham News Network|date=12 February 2017}}</ref>
On 13 February, the rebels claimed to have captured several buildings in Manshiyah.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/newly-formed-jihadist-coalition-advances-daraa/|title=Newly formed jihadist coalition advances in Daraa|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=2017-02-13|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-13|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-02-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170214003650/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/newly-formed-jihadist-coalition-advances-daraa/|url-status=dead}}</ref> After the rebel advance, the [[Russian Air Force]] conducted dozens of airstrikes on rebel positions in Daraa.<ref name=russia/> The next day, the Army launched a counter-attack that they said resulted in the recapture of several points in Manshiyah.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-fights-back-daraa-attempt-reverse-jihadist-gains/|title=Syrian Army fights back in Daraa as they attempt to reverse the jihadist gains|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=2017-02-13|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-13|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-02-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170215022945/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-fights-back-daraa-attempt-reverse-jihadist-gains/|url-status=dead}}</ref> By 14 February BM had claimed to have captured significant territory, including Manshiyah Mosque, and that [[Hezbollah]] and [[National Defense Force (Syria)|National Defense Force]] reinforcements arrived in the city.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
On 15 February, Tahrir al-Sham fighters captured some areas in the northeastern part of Manshiyah; however, later in the day the Army said it had recaptured all of the lost points and launched a counter-offensive capturing the eastern part of the district.<ref name=tables>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-turns-tables-jihadist-rebels-daraa-several-points-recaptured-video/|title=Syrian Army turns the tables on the jihadist rebels in Daraa, several points recaptured: video|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=2017-02-15|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-15|language=en-US|archive-date=2018-11-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181121005647/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-turns-tables-jihadist-rebels-daraa-several-points-recaptured-video/|url-status=dead}}</ref> According to [[Farhan Haq]], deputy spokesman for the [[UN Secretary General]], over 9,000 civilians fled the city of Daraa as of 15 February.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/un-worried-clashes-daraa-9000-civilians-flee-city/|title=UN worried about clashes in Daraa as 9,000 civilians flee the city|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-02-15|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-16|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-02-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170216022634/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/un-worried-clashes-daraa-9000-civilians-flee-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref> By 17 February, pro-government sources had reported 36 deaths on the pro-government side, including one Iranian and eleven officers, and the next day BM announced the successful completion of the “First Phase” of its offensive.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
===Offensive stalls and Army counter-attack===
[[File:Rebel fighters in al-Manishiyah District (Daraa 2017).png|thumb|left|Rebel fighters advance in the al-Manshiyah District.]]
On 20 February, the rebels launched the "third phase" of their offensive with fighting intensifying.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/clashes-intensify-syrias-daraa-rebels-launch-3rd-phase-offensive/|title=Clashes intensify in Syria's Daraa as rebels launch 3rd phase of offensive|first=Zen|last=Adra|date=20 February 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=20 February 2017|archive-date=22 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170222132121/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/clashes-intensify-syrias-daraa-rebels-launch-3rd-phase-offensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, the same day, an [[Islamic StateISIL]] affiliate, the [[Khalid ibn al-Walid Army]], took advantage of the rebels' redirection of personnel for the assault on Manshiyah and [[ISIL Daraa offensive (February 2017)|launched its own offensive]] west of Daraa against the rebels. The Khalid ibn al-Walid Army captured [[Tasil]], as well as four other towns and villages and a hill. The rebels managed to recapture only two towns.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://syriadirect.org/news/islamic-state-affiliate%E2%80%99s-surprise-offensive-pays-off-as-rebels-distracted-in-daraa-city/|title=Islamic State affiliate's surprise offensive pays off as rebels distracted in Daraa city|access-date=2017-02-22|archive-date=2018-12-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181202230356/https://syriadirect.org/news/islamic-state-affiliate%E2%80%99s-surprise-offensive-pays-off-as-rebels-distracted-in-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/massive-rebel-collapse-daraa-isis-sweeps-several-towns/|title=Massive rebel collapse in Daraa as ISIS sweeps through several towns|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=20 February 2017|access-date=21 February 2017|archive-date=10 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190210175514/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/massive-rebel-collapse-daraa-isis-sweeps-several-towns/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Over a period of three days, 132 people were killed in the jihadi offensive, mostly combatants.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/258704/World/Region/-killed-in-three-days-of-Syria-clashes-Monitor.aspx|title=130 killed in three days of Syria clashes: Monitor - Region - World - Ahram Online}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=61420|title=Casualties rise with the continuation of the bloody fight in the western countryside of Daraa, killing more than 130 persons – #SOHR|date=22 February 2017|access-date=21 March 2017}}</ref> Due to the attack on rebel positions, the offensive in Daraa city stalled.{{Citation needed|date=June 2018}}
The Syrian Army reportedly recaptured some positions in a joint Hezbollah, NDF, and 5th Armored Division counter-attack on 23 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-launching-counter-assault/|title=Syrian Army advances in Daraa City after launching counter-assault|first=Leith|last=Fadel|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|date=23 February 2017|access-date=23 February 2017|archive-date=23 February 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170223190647/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-launching-counter-assault/|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, the same day, a rebel suicide-bomber blew himself up near an Army checkpoint amid a renewed rebel attempt to break through government fortifications in the city.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-suicide-bomber-blasts-syrian-army-checkpoint-daraa-city-photos/|title=Islamist suicide bomber blasts Syrian Army checkpoint in Daraa city (Photos)|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=23 February 2017|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=21 March 2017|archive-date=2 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170302134113/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-suicide-bomber-blasts-syrian-army-checkpoint-daraa-city-photos/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The following day, the Russian Navy launched long-range ballistic missiles at rebel positions in the al-Bilad district in retaliation for the suicide-bombing.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-navy-pounds-islamist-rebels-daraa-ballistic-missiles/|title=Russian Navy pounds Islamist rebels in Daraa with ballistic missiles|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-02-24|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-24|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-02-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170225053400/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-navy-pounds-islamist-rebels-daraa-ballistic-missiles/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 24 February, a rebel Omar rocket strike targeted Muawiyas in the Manshiyah district; government sources claimed a school was destroyed.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/school-blown-smithereens-rebel-missile-attack-daraa-photos/|title=School blown to smithereens by rebel missile attack in Daraa (Photos)|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-02-25|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-02-25|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-02-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170225210216/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/school-blown-smithereens-rebel-missile-attack-daraa-photos/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The same day, Republican Guard reinforcements arrived in Daraa, numbering 500 troops, ahead of a major Army counter-attack.<ref name=entirety/> Pro-rebel sources later claimed that Jordan expelled families of rebel fighters killed in the offensive.<ref>{{cite news |last=عمر |first=محمد  |date=2017-02-27|title=الأردن يطرد عائلات مقاتلين في الحر قتلوا بمعركة المنشية "للضغط على الفصائل" |url=https://7al.net/2017/02/27/الأردن-يطرد-عائلات-مقاتلين-في-الحر-قتل/| work=موقع الحل السوري - أخبار سوريا |location=درعا |access-date=2017-02-27}}</ref>
On 5 March, the Army launched a new counter-attack, and reported capturing several buildings in Daraa Al-Bilad neighborhood, taking advantage of the lack of rebel manpower which was diverted to repel the [[Khalid ibn al-Walid Army]]'s offensive.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/tides-turn-daraa-syrian-army-begins-counter-offensive-provincial-capital/|title=Tides turn in Daraa as the Syrian Army begins counter-offensive in provincial capital|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-03-05|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-06|language=en-US|archive-date=2019-04-15|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190415014253/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/tides-turn-daraa-syrian-army-begins-counter-offensive-provincial-capital/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The next day, the 5th Armoured division of the Republican Guard recaptured a few building blocks in Manshiyah, thus almost completely reversing rebel gains made in February.<ref name="modest">{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/modest-gains-syrian-army-continues-daraa-counter-offensive/|title=Modest gains as the Syrian Army continues Daraa counter-offensive|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-03-06|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-06|language=en-US|archive-date=2019-04-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410132202/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/modest-gains-syrian-army-continues-daraa-counter-offensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The Army made additional gains in the Al-Bilad neighborhood and seized some areas around the Al-Musarif Roundabout on 8 March.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-several-sites-inside-daraa-city-launching-latest-military-operation/|title=Syrian Army seizes several sites inside Daraa City after launching latest military operation|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=2017-03-08|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-08|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-03-08|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170308102023/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-seizes-several-sites-inside-daraa-city-launching-latest-military-operation/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
===Interlude===
On 12 March, BM announced the "fourth phase" of its offensive.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/> The government reported that a rebel suicide car-bomber killed and injured several soldiers in Manshiyah.<ref name=field>{{Cite news |url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-suicide-bomber-attacks-government-forces-syrias-daraa/ |title=Field Report: Suicide bomber attacks government forces in Syria's Daraa |last=Adra |first=Zen |date=2017-03-12 |work=[[al-Masdar News]] |access-date=2017-03-12 |language=en-US |archive-date=2019-04-10 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410130724/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-suicide-bomber-attacks-government-forces-syrias-daraa/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> Following this, the rebels recaptured a building in the district.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-scores-direct-hit-islamist-insurgents-building-daraa-city/|title=VIDEO: Syrian Army scores direct hit on Islamist insurgents at building in Daraa city|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=13 March 2017|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=21 March 2017|archive-date=21 March 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170321143025/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-scores-direct-hit-islamist-insurgents-building-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref> On 13 March, the rebels captured the Abu-alraha building block in Manshiyah.<ref>[http://www.syriahr.com/2017/03/13/بعد-معارك-وهجوم-عنيف-فصائل-درعا-تتمكن/  بعد معارك وهجوم عنيف…فصائل درعا تتمكن من تحقيق تقدم جديد في المدينة]</ref> After this, fighting eased for some days, although BM continued to report minor territorial advances eastward.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
On 16 March, the Syrian Army attacked multiple rebel-held districts of the city, reportedly killing at least 14 rebel fighters.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-targets-jihadist-headquarters-daraa-city/|title=Syrian Army targets jihadist headquarters in Daraa City|last=Fadel|first=Leith|date=2017-03-16|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-16|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-03-17|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170317145008/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-targets-jihadist-headquarters-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 25 March, the government renewed its counter-attack.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/> Artillery and missile attacks were launched by the Army in Daraa and its north-eastern countryside; according to pro-government sources these destroyed three rebel bases, resulting in the deaths of over 20 fighters.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-destroys-3-bases-deraa-killing-20-militants/|title=Syrian Army destroys 3 bases in Deraa, killing 20+ militants|last=Mulhem|first=Suliman|date=2017-03-25|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-25|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-03-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326052413/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-destroys-3-bases-deraa-killing-20-militants/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The following day, the 5th Division of the Republican Guard with the support of Hezbollah and the special forces of the 15th Division stormed Manshiyah, reportedly seizing numerous buildings and causing around 40 rebel casualties.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-russian-airstrikes-pummel-islamist-rebels/|title=Syrian Army advances in Daraa city while Russian airstrikes pummel Islamist rebels|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-03-25|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-03-26|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-03-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170326000325/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-advances-daraa-city-russian-airstrikes-pummel-islamist-rebels/|url-status=dead}}</ref> BM, however, claimed there was no territorial change and released the names of new pro-government deaths in action, including a general from the 15th Suweida Paratroopers, a Colonel, and a Lieutenant.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
On 27 March, BM again renewed its attack. Tahrir al-Sham fighters continued to attack Army positions in the Manshiyah neighborhood.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/> The military was also attacking rebel positions throughout the city and the sporadic clashes continued into early April.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-smashes-tahrir-al-sham-bases-in-daraa-city/|title=Syrian Army smashes Tahrir al-Sham bases in Daraa city|last=Antonopoulos|first=Paul|date=2017-04-02|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=2017-04-02|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-04-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170402041335/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-smashes-tahrir-al-sham-bases-in-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
===Renewed rebel offensive===
On 4 April, BM launched a new eight-day assault on the southern and western sections of Manshiyah. BM media claimed multiple Hezbollah casualties, then on 5-6 April significant territorial gains and destruction of government military infrastructure.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/> Both BM and government sources reported that the rebels detonatated a VBIED inside the government-held parts of the Manshiyah District on 6 April, killing scores of government troops and forcing them to retreat. A second VBIED hit another building in the same area. During the fighting the rebels seized three security buildings which served as HQ for the Syrian Army.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref name="renew">{{cite news|last1=Adra|first1=Zen|title=Field Report: Jihadi rebels renew attack in Daraa|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-jihadi-rebels-renew-attack-daraa/|access-date=8 April 2017|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|date=6 April 2017|archive-date=6 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406230118/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/field-report-jihadi-rebels-renew-attack-daraa/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 8 April, the rebels launched another assault on the Manshiyah District, capturing large parts of the district after a fierce battle. The rebels broke through the Army’s defenses around the western perimeter of the Manshiyah District, giving them the upper-hand in the battle and getting them close to capturing the district.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref name=close>{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Jihadist rebels close to capturing key district in Daraa|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-close-capturing-key-district-daraa/|access-date=8 April 2017|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|date=8 April 2017|archive-date=9 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170409114029/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-close-capturing-key-district-daraa/|url-status=dead}}</ref> By 9 April, rebels claim to have killed 103 Syrian government fighters, nine Hezbollah fighters, and one Iranian as well as destroyed six tanks and six Shilkas since 12 February.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
Still, two days later, the Army reported it had launched a counter-attack supported by the Russian Air Force.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-jets-springboard-syrian-army-counter-offensive-key-daraa-district/|title=Russian jets springboard Syrian Army counter-offensive in key Daraa district|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=10 April 2017|publisher=[[al-Masdar News]]|access-date=13 April 2017|archive-date=12 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412062118/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-jets-springboard-syrian-army-counter-offensive-key-daraa-district/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Despite the Army's counter-attack, the rebels claimed they captured the "15 Residential Block" after hours of fierce fighting.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{cite news|title=ثوار درعا يسيطرون على 15 كتلةً في حي المنشية|url=http://www.all4syria.info/Archive/402010|access-date=11 April 2017|work=كلنا شركاء في الوطن|language=ar}}</ref>
On 12 April, the rebels recaptured the territory they lost to the Army in their counter-attack, including several building blocks near the district’s center.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Jihadist rebels reverse Syrian Army gains in key Daraa district|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-reverse-syrian-army-gains-key-daraa-district/|access-date=12 April 2017|work=[[al-Masdar News]]|date=12 April 2017|archive-date=12 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170412224637/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-reverse-syrian-army-gains-key-daraa-district/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 14 April, rebels launched a new 11-day offensive, with further advances in Manshiyah, capturing the Al-Maqsem Checkpoint and its nearby building blocks.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-advance-daraa-amid-latest-attack-army-positions/|title=Jihadist rebels advance in Daraa amid latest attack on army positions|first=Leith|last=Fadel|date=14 April 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=27 May 2017|archive-date=17 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517011541/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-advance-daraa-amid-latest-attack-army-positions/|url-status=dead}}</ref> By 15 April, the rebels were in control of between 70 and 90 percent of the Manshiyah district.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-collapses-islamist-rebels-swarm-southern-daraa-neighborhood/|title=Syrian Army collapses as Islamist rebels swarm through southern Daraa neighborhood|publisher=al-Masdar News|date=15 April 2017|access-date=15 April 2017|archive-date=16 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170416045203/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-collapses-islamist-rebels-swarm-southern-daraa-neighborhood/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="saves">{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-air-force-saves-day-daraa-amid-major-assault-jihadists/|title=Russian Air Force saves the day in Daraa amid major assault by jihadists|first=Al-Masdar|last=News|date=16 April 2017|access-date=27 May 2017|archive-date=17 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517104729/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/russian-air-force-saves-day-daraa-amid-major-assault-jihadists/|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, government sources reported that further rebel progress was halted on 16 April by heavy Russian airstrikes.<ref name="saves"/>
On 18 April, the Army, backed by Russian airstrikes, launched a counter-offensive in the Manshiyah district, and reported recovering some points during the fighting. However, the rebels remained in control of over 60 percent of the district.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Syrian Army fights back in Daraa after days spent on the defensive|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-fights-back-daraa-days-spent-defensive/|access-date=18 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|date=18 April 2017|archive-date=19 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419104606/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/syrian-army-fights-back-daraa-days-spent-defensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Over the next two days, the rebels counter-attack continued and recaptured several positions, leaving them once again in control of 80 percent of Manshiyah.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Jihadists launch powerful assault on Daraa City|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-launch-powerful-assault-daraa-city/|access-date=19 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|date=19 April 2017|archive-date=20 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170420045836/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadists-launch-powerful-assault-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Tomson|first1=Chris|title=Islamist rebels on the verge of capturing embattled neighborhood in Daraa city|url=https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-verge-capturing-embattled-neighborhood-daraa-city/|access-date=20 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|date=20 April 2017|archive-date=21 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170421093058/https://mobile.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-verge-capturing-embattled-neighborhood-daraa-city/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On 25 April, the rebels started another attack on Army positions in the Manshiyah District by using an explosive hose.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{cite news|title=خرطومٌ متفجّرٌ يوقع قتلى وجرحى لقوات النظام في درعا|url=http://www.all4syria.info/Archive/405287|access-date=25 April 2017|work=كلنا شركاء في الوطن|language=ar}}</ref> While the rebels failed to take the strategic Al-Arshadiyah Checkpoint,<ref>{{cite news|last1=Fadel|first1=Leith|title=Jihadist rebels launch new offensive in Daraa to capture important district|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-new-offensive-daraa-capture-important-district/|access-date=25 April 2017|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|date=25 April 2017|archive-date=25 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170425203615/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/jihadist-rebels-launch-new-offensive-daraa-capture-important-district/|url-status=dead}}</ref> they did capture 12 buildings during the fighting.<ref>{{cite news|title=فصائل الثوار تسيطر على "12 كتلة عسكرية" في حي المنشية بدرعا|url=http://freesyria.tv/?p=39806|access-date=25 April 2017|work=قناة السوري الحر الفضائية|date=25 April 2017|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806020947/http://freesyria.tv/?p=39806|archive-date=6 August 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> The next day, heavy artillery shelling and airstrikes reportedly caused heavy casualties among rebel forces.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-forces-pay-big-price-gains-daraa-city-full-report/|title=Rebel forces pay big price for gains in Daraa city - full report|first=Chris|last=Tomson|date=27 April 2017|access-date=27 May 2017|archive-date=20 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170520065701/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/rebel-forces-pay-big-price-gains-daraa-city-full-report/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
On May 5 a ceasefire, brokered by Russia, comes into effect in four regions of Syria, including Dara’a, and fighting paused.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
===Final rebel push===
Fighting broke out again on 17 May. Pro-government media reported a failed rebel offensive in which two HTS and one FSA Saif al Haq commander were killed, “Bilal Abu Zaid and Abu Hashem al-Tabuki (a Saudi national) of HTS, as well as Moetaz al-Nabwani.” BM claimed that the government attempted to regain lost positions under the cover of heavy shelling, calling the attack “a major breach of the agreement to ease the escalation” in the city. The Carter Center claimed that regime forces failed to advance in the district.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
In late May, the rebels and a pro-opposition journalist reported that despite Russia's declaration of a "de-escalation zone" in the area multiple airstrikes were conducted on Daraa by pro-government forces.<ref>[http://eaworldview.com/2017/05/syria-daily-dozens-killed-wounded-in-isis-bombing-of-rebels/ Pro-Assad Bombing and Ground Attacks in Daraa Violate “De-Escalation Zones”], EA Wordlview, 22 May</ref>
On 24 May, the rebels captured 34 to 40 buildings in Manshiyah<ref>{{cite news|title=Al-Bonyan Al-Marsous forces the Assad troops to retreat in Manshiyah district of #Daraa|url=http://en.eldorar.com/node/5775|access-date=25 May 2017|work=en.eldorar.com|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704044218/http://en.eldorar.com/node/5775|archive-date=4 July 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> after they claimed to had repelled more than two Army attempts to advance in the district.<ref>{{cite news|title=Syrian Opposition Advances In Manshya Neighborhood In Daraa - Qasion News Agency|url=http://qasioun.net/en/news/show/69664|access-date=25 May 2017|language=en|archive-date=19 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019120857/http://qasioun.net/en/news/show/69664|url-status=dead}}</ref> In response to the rebels' advance, the Syrian Air Force launched 22 airstrikes on rebel-held positions.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-advance-syrian-army-daraa-safe-zone/|title=Islamist rebels advance against the Syrian Army in Daraa safe zone|last=Tomson|first=Chris|date=2017-05-25|work=AMN - Al-Masdar News {{!}} المصدر نيوز|access-date=2017-05-26|language=en-US|archive-date=2017-05-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525091819/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/islamist-rebels-advance-syrian-army-daraa-safe-zone/|url-status=dead}}</ref> The latest advance reportedly left the rebels in control of 95 percent of Manshiyah.<ref name=teetering>{{cite news|title=Assad Forces Teetering on Defeat in Last Manshiyah Strongholds|url=http://syrianobserver.com/EN/News/32810|access-date=26 May 2017|work=The Syrian Observer|language=en}}</ref>
On 2 June, BM reported a new government offensive and fierce fighting, but no territorial changes, while the following day pro-government media reported a new rebel attack in Manshiyah was repelled.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/scores-jihadist-rebels-killed-disastrous-daraa-offensive/|title=Scores of jihadist rebels killed in disastrous Daraa offensive|date=4 June 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=7 June 2017|archive-date=20 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181120070248/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/scores-jihadist-rebels-killed-disastrous-daraa-offensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Thirty-one fighters were killed on both sides amid the fighting,<ref name=pound>{{cite web|url=https://www.voanews.com/a/syrian-troops-pound-darra-after-rebel-attack/3886454.html|title=Syrian troops pound Daraa after rebel attack}}</ref> including 16 soldiers and 15 rebels.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.syriahr.com/en/?p=67577|title=31 fighters and members at least of the factions, regime forces and Hezbollah are killed in the violent clashes of Daraa city, accompanied by about 350 raids, aerial and artillery strikes|date=5 June 2017}}</ref> In retaliation for the attack, the Army heavily shelled rebel-held parts of the city the following day.<ref name=pound/> It was also reported the shelling was part of preparations for an upcoming offensive against the rebels in Daraa<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/zero-hour-approaches-syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-important-daraa-offensive/|title=Zero hour approaches as Syrian Army, Hezbollah begin important Daraa offensive|date=4 June 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=7 June 2017|archive-date=8 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180708230331/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/zero-hour-approaches-syrian-army-hezbollah-begin-important-daraa-offensive/|url-status=dead}}</ref> Fighting continued up until 6 June.<ref name=pound/>
==Aftermath – Government offensive==
{{Main|Daraa offensive (June 2017)}}
On 7 June, a Syrian Army offensive was launched against the rebels in Daraa city.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-pounds-jihadi-rebels-daraa-major-offensive-begins/|title=VIDEO: Syrian Army pounds jihadi rebels in Daraa as major offensive begins|date=7 June 2017|publisher=Al-Masdar|access-date=7 June 2017|archive-date=23 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181123190303/https://www.almasdarnews.com/article/video-syrian-army-pounds-jihadi-rebels-daraa-major-offensive-begins/|url-status=dead}}</ref> However, frontlines remained unmoved by the end of June, and there was little significant fighting over the summer.<ref name="Battle for Manshiyah"/>
==See also==
*[[Daraa Governorate campaign]]
==References==
{{reflist|30em}}
{{Syrian Civil War}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Daraa offensive (February 2017)}}
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war in 2017]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Syrian government]]
[[Category:Daraa Governorate in the Syrian civil war]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving the Free Syrian Army]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Tahrir al-Sham]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Hezbollah]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Russia]]
[[Category:Military operations of the Syrian civil war involving Ahrar al-Sham]]