For years, Israel has been carrying out covert bombing operations in Syria to neutralize anti-Israel forces. However, experts fear that the ongoing conflict in Gaza could escalate tensions, leading to more airstrikes. Just a week after an alleged Israeli strike on Damascus, Syrian President Bashar Assad appeared in public, showing resilience and determination. Haid Haid, a consultant with the Chatham House think tank, believes this move was intentional, indicating that the Syrian regime is continuing its business as usual despite the recent attack. Assad’s neutrality in the Gaza conflict stems from the ongoing Syrian civil war, which has weakened the military and damaged the economy. Syria also uses this neutrality to gain diplomatic favor. Despite Israel’s numerous strikes, Syria has refrained from retaliation due to its internal conflicts and limited capabilities. However, increased Israeli attacks following a rocket attack by Palestinian Islamic Jihad have prompted Israel to directly target Iranian operatives. This shift in strategy is partly driven by Israel’s growing concern over Iran’s involvement in Syria and the threat it poses to Israeli borders. The covert Israeli airstrikes have continued unabated, and experts predict they will persist. The low-cost nature of these attacks makes them a viable option for Israel, but the potential for regional escalation remains high. The recent Iranian missile strikes on Israel following the Damascus embassy bombing underscore the risk of miscalculation and escalation. The complex interplay between Israel, Syria, Iran, and other regional actors makes the ongoing conflict in Syria a significant concern for stability in the Middle East.
Israel’s Ongoing Covert Bombings of Syria: Implications for Regional Conflict
