The Israeli Defense Forces said on 16 July they are preparing for several days of combat operations in Syria, signalling the possibility of an extended confrontation with forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. Israeli media reported that the army is sending additional troops and equipment to the northern border and planning sustained operations following recent air-strikes around Damascus. The IDF did not disclose a timetable or operational details, but the declaration marks one of its clearest public indications of readiness for a prolonged campaign inside Syria in recent years.