Israeli Airstrikes Target Syrian Military Headquarters Amid Renewed Clashes
In a significant escalation of tensions, Israeli airstrikes have struck the Syrian military headquarters in Damascus, coinciding with a resurgence of conflict in the region. Reports indicate that two warning missiles were launched from an Israeli reconnaissance aircraft, hitting the entrance gate of the Syrian Ministry of Defence. According to state-owned Elekhbariya TV, this attack resulted in injuries to two civilians, as reported by Reuters.
Image Source: Reuters
The airstrikes extended to the southern city of Sweida, a region known for its Druze population, marking the third consecutive day of Israeli military activity against Syrian forces. The Israeli military confirmed the strike in Damascus, emphasizing its commitment to monitoring actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria.
Image Source: AP
Why Israel Is Engaging in Syria’s Internal Conflict
Dominic Waghorn, International Affairs Editor
Israel’s military operations in Syria reflect its longstanding disregard for international borders, solidifying its status as a dominant military power in the Middle East. The recent airstrike on a Syrian government facility in Damascus serves as a clear warning to the new Syrian government: refrain from interfering in the southern regions of Syria that Israel has effectively occupied.
Israel has established military bases in southern Syria and drawn a line of control in the area. On Monday, Israeli warplanes targeted Syrian tanks moving southward in an attempt to restore order amidst factional fighting. The Israel Defence Forces articulated that the presence of such military vehicles in southern Syria posed a potential threat to Israeli security. However, the reality is that Syria’s aging tanks present minimal risk to Israel’s advanced military capabilities.
Local media reported that Sweida and surrounding villages faced intense artillery and mortar fire on Wednesday, signaling the breakdown of a ceasefire between Syrian government forces and Druze armed groups. Israel has also indicated a readiness to escalate its involvement in the conflict.
Image Source: Reuters
Syria attributed the ceasefire violation to militias operating within Sweida. In response, the Syrian Ministry of Defence released a statement affirming that military forces would continue to counteract the source of fire within the city, while adhering to engagement rules designed to protect residents and facilitate the safe return of displaced individuals.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Israel Katz, reiterated that military strikes against Syrian forces would persist until they withdraw, urging them to "leave Druze alone," according to local sources.
Conclusion
As the situation in Syria remains volatile, Israel’s military actions underscore the complexities of regional dynamics and the ongoing struggles faced by various factions. The interplay of local conflicts and international responses continues to shape the landscape, prompting concerns about stability and civilian safety in the region.
Stay updated on the latest developments in this unfolding situation.
