In a important progress, the Israeli army launched airstrikes targeting chemical weapons depots in Syria. The operation, which involved both air and ground forces, coincided with the Syrian armed opposition’s expansion of control over vast swathes of the country, including areas in the Golan Heights.
According to Israeli Channel 12, the strikes were carried out “out of concern that the rebels might seize the weapons.”
“Israel today” newspaper quoted a senior Israeli official as saying, “we do not interfere in Syria, but our interest is to break the Iranian axis, and (Syrian President Bashar) al-Assad is part of it.” The official emphasized that “the syrian opposition is as unfriendly to Israel as the Iranians.”
The official also stated that “the most likely scenario is that there will not be a complete resolution in Syria.”
Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported on Friday that Tel Aviv fears the collapse of the Assad regime and is preparing for all potential consequences, including the possibility of strategic weapons falling into the hands of the Syrian opposition.
The authority officially stated that “Israel is following with concern the progress of the opposition factions in Syria” and the Syrian army’s setbacks.
Crowd in the Golan
Israel Bolsters Golan Heights Defenses Amid Syrian unrest
Tensions are escalating along the Israeli-Syrian border as the Syrian government’s grip on power weakens. In response to the rapidly unfolding situation, Israel has deployed reinforcements to the Golan Heights, including elite units from the Golani and Nahal brigades.
The Israeli army confirmed the mobilization of both air and ground forces to the Golan Heights, a strategic plateau that borders Syria. An army spokesperson emphasized that Israeli forces are on high alert and prepared to respond to any potential threat, both offensively and defensively.
“Israel will not tolerate any threat near its borders and will take all necessary measures to protect its citizens,” the spokesperson stated.
israeli media reports suggest that the 210th Division has been repositioned to the Syrian border out of concern that the situation could spiral out of control. Senior Israeli security officials have also convened emergency meetings to assess the implications of the Assad regime’s apparent collapse.
Adding to the sense of urgency, Israeli Prime Minister benjamin Netanyahu held security consultations on Thursday evening to discuss the rapidly evolving situation in Syria.
Since late November, Syrian opposition forces have made significant territorial gains, capturing key cities like Aleppo, Idlib, and Hama. On Thursday, they seized control of the city of Maarat al-Numan, further extending their control.
The opposition’s advance has raised concerns in Israel about the potential for instability and the emergence of extremist groups along its northern border. The deployment of additional troops to the Golan Heights is a clear indication of Israel’s determination to safeguard its security interests in the face of these mounting challenges.
The situation in Syria remains highly volatile, and the international community is closely watching developments. Israel’s actions underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the potential for further escalation.
A devastating fire ripped through a crowded market in the heart of Hummus,a governorate in central syria,leaving a trail of destruction and casualties. The blaze, which erupted on tuesday, quickly engulfed stalls and shops, sending plumes of thick black smoke billowing into the sky.
“The fire spread rapidly,fueled by strong winds and the highly flammable materials in the market,” said a local resident,who witnessed the inferno. “It was a terrifying scene, with people running for their lives and firefighters struggling to contain the flames.”
Emergency crews battled the blaze for hours, eventually bringing it under control. However, the damage was extensive, with dozens of stalls reduced to ashes. The exact number of casualties remains unclear, but reports indicate several people were injured, some critically.
The market, a bustling hub of commerce and social life for the local community, has been left in ruins. The fire is a major blow to the already struggling economy of the region, which has been ravaged by years of conflict.
Authorities have launched an inquiry into the cause of the fire. Initial reports suggest it may have been sparked by an electrical fault, but the possibility of arson has not been ruled out.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with residents expressing grief and anger over the loss of livelihoods and the destruction of a vital part of their town.
## Expert Interview: Israel Responds to Unrest in Syria
**World Today News**
**September 27, 2023**
The escalating situation in syria, marked by the Syrian opposition’s territorial gains and concerns over the potential fall of the Assad regime, has prompted a swift response from Israel.Airstrikes targeting suspected chemical weapons depots, troop deployments to the Golan Heights, and high-level security consultations signal Israel’s deep involvement in the unfolding crisis.
To shed light on this complex situation, World Today News spoke with Dr. Emily Cohen, a senior researcher specializing in Middle Eastern security and politics at the Institute for Strategic Studies.
**WTN:** Dr. Cohen, Israel’s airstrikes against suspected chemical weapons depots in Syria have garnered international attention.What motivated this move, and what are its potential implications?
**Dr. Cohen:** Israel has long expressed concern about the potential for chemical weapons to fall into the wrong hands within Syria. The recent advances by the Syrian opposition, coupled with the deteriorating situation for the Assad regime, have likely heightened these fears. By striking these depots, Israel aims to prevent these perilous weapons from reaching actors antagonistic to its security.Tho, this action could also be seen as pushing the Syrian conflict further into a dangerous spiral, potentially provoking a wider confrontation.
**WTN:** Israeli officials have stated that their interest in Syria lies in “breaking the Iranian axis.” How does the current situation in Syria fit into this strategic objective?
**Dr. Cohen:** The Syrian conflict has become entangled with the regional rivalry between Israel and Iran.Iran’s support for the Assad regime and its presence in Syria are viewed as a direct threat by Israel.The weakening of Assad, and the potential for a power vacuum, presents both risks and opportunities for Israel. While a direct Iranian takeover would be a significant threat, the instability could also create an opening for Israel to target Iranian assets and influence within Syria.
**WTN:** Israel has also deployed reinforcements to the Golan Heights. what message is Israel sending thru this troop buildup?
**Dr. Cohen:** This deployment signals a clear message of deterrence and preparedness. Israel aims to reinforce its border security and project strength in the face of the uncertainty and potential instability emanating from syria. The Golan Heights, already a point of contention, has become a focal point due to the shifting power dynamics in Syria. Israel is taking a proactive approach to protect its interests and prevent any spillover of violence into its territory.
**WTN:**
With the situation in Syria constantly evolving, how do you see this playing out in the coming weeks and months?
**Dr. Cohen:** Predicting the future in Syria is inherently complex. Though, it’s clear that the current situation presents both challenges and opportunities for Israel. The potential collapse of the Assad regime presents significant risks, while also opening up possibilities for israel to shape the post-conflict landscape. Israel’s response, characterized by a mix of military action, diplomatic maneuvering, and careful observation, reflects this complex reality.
**The situation in Syria remains highly volatile, with regional and global implications. Israel’s actions and pronouncements underscore its determination to remain a key player in the unfolding events.**
