BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:30 A.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) did not need much time to launch a counter-attack against the rebel forces in Dara’a, as their contingents began a swift assault minutes after foiling the Free Syrian Army’s surprise offensive.

Reports from Dara’a City indicate that the Syrian Arab Army began their counter-attack around 11:00 A.M. (Damascus Time), when elements of the 5th Armored Division attacked Yadoudah and southern Al-Manishiyah.

There have been no reported gains thus far, despite the intensity of the clashes inside and outside the city’s perimeter.

Rebel activists claim they launched today’s offensive in the Dara’a Governorate in response to the Syrian Arab Army’s continued aggression and violation of the nationwide ceasefire.