
Israeli airstrikes have reportedly surpassed 310 across Syria since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime on Sunday, as confirmed by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The strikes targeted critical military sites, including facilities in Aleppo, Damascus, and Hama. Among the affected locations were weapons depots, ammunition storage, airports, naval bases, and research centers, many of which have been completely destroyed. Over 60 strikes were recorded overnight between Monday and Tuesday, leaving significant damage to Syrian military infrastructure.
IDF Confirms Troops in Buffer Zone
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged operations within Syria, including areas beyond the demilitarized buffer zone near the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. The IDF stated that these actions aim to prevent advanced weaponry from falling into the hands of extremist groups amid the power vacuum following Assad’s ouster. IDF spokesperson Nadav Shoshani clarified that Israeli forces have not approached Damascus, countering claims in some reports, but are operating within the Area of Separation near the Golan Heights.
Observers React
SOHR founder Rami Abdul Rahman condemned the airstrikes, stating they are “crippling Syria’s military capabilities.” He also criticized the violation of Syrian sovereignty, with footage of destroyed facilities, including Latakia’s naval port, verified by international media.
Global Responses
Turkey’s Foreign Ministry criticized Israel’s military actions, accusing it of exploiting Syria’s transitional phase. Established in 1974, the demilitarized buffer zone was intended to prevent direct clashes between Syria and Israel, though disputes over the Golan Heights persist.
Strategic Objectives
Israel maintains that its strikes aim to secure its borders and prevent strategic weapons, including chemical arms, from being acquired by extremist groups. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar emphasized that such actions are critical to national security.
Post-Assad Landscape
The strikes follow the fall of Assad’s regime, which ended decades of family rule after rebels, led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), seized control of Damascus. Assad’s ouster marks a significant shift in Syria’s political and military dynamics, leaving the region in a precarious transitional state.
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