Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple sites in southern Syria, particularly in the Damascus countryside and Daraa province. Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed the strikes, emphasizing a policy aimed at eliminating weapons threats in the region. Israel is adamant about preventing the establishment of military forces in southern Syria, citing security concerns for its citizens. The international community is critical of these actions, especially amidst Syria’s political transitions.
On Tuesday night, Israel executed airstrikes on various sites in the Damascus countryside and Daraa province in southern Syria. The airstrikes focused on the Al-Kiswah area and Izraa, with reports stating that at least four attacks occurred. One of the strikes notably hit a weapons depot in Al-Kiswah, causing a fire in the area. Israeli officials confirmed these operational moves as part of their strategy to thwart military threats in the region.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that any attempts by Syrian regime forces and affiliated terrorist organizations to establish a presence in southern Syria would be met with severe retaliation. He emphasized that the Israeli Air Force is intensifying its actions to eliminate any potential weapons threats, aiming to prevent southern Syria from becoming comparable to southern Lebanon where military hostilities can escalate.
The Israeli army confirmed that the strikes targeted military objectives, including command centers and locations storing weapons, citing these facilities as a threat to Israeli citizens. The military further pledged to address these risks proactively, ensuring regional safety. As of now, there has been no official response from Syrian authorities regarding the airstrikes.
In recent statements, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar discussed visions for Syria’s future, advocating for a federal state with autonomous regions to promote stability. This comment came during a partnership meeting in Brussels, highlighting a diplomatic approach amidst ongoing conflict in the region. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to preventing Syrian military advancements into southern areas near Damascus.
Netanyahu insisted on total demilitarization of southern Syria from new military forces under the current Syrian regime, specifically in regions like Quneitra and Daraa, ensuring the safety of the Druze community there. These events follow the recent political shifts in Syria, where longtime leader Bashar al-Assad fled after losing control over key areas of the country at the end of 2022.
The international community, including the United Nations and various Arab nations, has criticized Israel’s military actions in the Golan Heights and southern Syria. This ongoing conflict follows Israel’s expansion into these regions, which raises tensions and concerns over adherence to international agreements designed to maintain peace in the area. Following Assad’s regime’s collapse, the newly appointed president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, is tasked with forming a transitional government to navigate the upcoming political landscape.
Israel’s airstrikes in southern Syria reflect its strategy to counteract perceived threats from Syrian military forces and terrorist organizations. The Israeli government is adamant about preventing any armed presence in southern Syria, reinforcing military actions to protect national security. The ongoing conflict and recent political evolutions in Syria have intensified Israel’s military involvement, attracting international scrutiny and concern regarding regional stability.
Original Source: www.hurriyetdailynews.com
