Israel launched a large-scale series of airstrikes against numerous targets across Syria overnight, impacting military installations, weapons depots, and naval assets. The attacks transpired despite a statement from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Abu Mohammed al-Jolani asserting that his group seeks no conflict with Israel. This significant military action follows Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s declaration that Israeli troops will maintain their presence on Mount Hermon throughout the winter to safeguard positions secured in the Golan Heights buffer zone last week. Katz emphasized the crucial security implications of this continued presence in light of the ongoing Syrian conflict.
Reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring group, indicate that Israel launched at least 61 missiles in a span of under five hours. These missiles targeted key Syrian military infrastructure, including headquarters, radar systems, and arms caches. Furthermore, facilities associated with Syria’s missile and chemical weapons programs, along with naval assets in Latakia, were also reportedly hit. The breadth of the operation surprised some Western officials, initially expecting a more limited response focused on chemical and missile sites.
Al-Jolani, whose group played a significant role in the Syrian civil war, accused Israel of using false justifications for its attacks but underscored HTS’s dedication to Syria’s reconstruction and stability. He emphasized that foreign intervention in Syria is unwarranted following the departure of Iranian forces, asserting that the priority is now rebuilding the country rather than engaging in conflicts that risk further devastation. His comments reflect a growing international concern regarding escalation in the region.
The United Nations and several European countries, including France, Germany, and Spain, have voiced strong criticism of Israel’s actions, urging the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the buffer zone. They cite violations of Syrian sovereignty and breaches of the 1974 disengagement agreement which established a demilitarized zone. Israel maintains, however, that this agreement is no longer valid due to the collapse of Assad’s government. Israel’s Defense Forces Chief of Staff, Herzi Halevi, countered this criticism by stating that their actions are solely focused on ensuring Israeli national security and preventing extremist groups from establishing a presence near their borders.
The impact of these Israeli strikes is substantial, with reports suggesting the degradation of up to 70% of Syria’s military capabilities. This has included targets such as the Syrian Scientific Studies and Research Center, a key facility linked to advanced weapons development, as well as significant air force infrastructure. The scale of the strikes underscores a significant escalation in regional tensions and raises questions about the future stability of the region and the potential impact on ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded talks with regional allies in Jordan, Turkey, and Iraq to discuss the future of Syria after Assad. Blinken emphasized the complex challenges of stabilizing Syria while simultaneously preventing displacement and terrorism, highlighting the ripple effects of the Syrian conflict on the broader Middle East. While confirming US contacts with HTS, he declined to elaborate on the specifics of these interactions, reiterating the US commitment to preventing regional instability and promoting long-term peace and reconstruction in Syria. The ongoing situation demands careful observation given its potential for widespread regional consequences.
