At least 13 people were killed when Israeli forces conducted a raid on the Syrian village of Beit Jin on Friday, Syrian officials reported, in the deadliest Israeli operation in the region since its troops seized control of part of southern Syria a year ago.

Syria’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack as a "horrific massacre," noting that women and children were among those killed. The state news agency SANA said Israeli forces entered Beit Jin aiming to capture local men and opened heavy fire after residents resisted, forcing many families to flee.

Israel said the operation targeted members of the Jamaa Islamiya militant group, who were allegedly planning improvised explosive device and rocket attacks against Israeli territory. The Israeli military reported that its troops came under fire, with six soldiers injured, prompting a response that included air support.

The Israeli operation concluded with the apprehension of all suspects and the reported deaths of several militants, according to the military.