Israel Launches New Wave of Airstrikes in Syria
On Friday, december 13th, 2024, Israel launched a series of airstrikes targeting military installations across Syria, marking a meaningful escalation in the ongoing regional conflict. These strikes, which reportedly reached the outskirts of Damascus, followed the recent fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime and the subsequent celebrations in the Syrian capital.
According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights,a UK-based organization with a vast network of on-the-ground sources,the first wave of strikes hit at least six targets around Damascus and the southern province of Al-Suweida. A subsequent wave targeted additional locations, including Mount Qasioun in Damascus, Jalakhla airport near Al-Suweida, and defense research laboratories in Masyaf.
Syrian state television, controlled by the interim authorities, confirmed the “intense” nature of the bombings near Damascus, reporting multiple explosions. The timing of these strikes is particularly noteworthy,given that Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz recently ordered troops to “maintain their positions during the winter months” on the Syrian side of Mount Hermon,within the Golan Heights demilitarized zone.
Turkey, a key regional player, has voiced its strong disapproval of Israel’s actions.Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan issued a statement urging Israel to cease its bombing campaign and withdraw from the Golan Heights. In an interview with NTV,Fidan stated,”Israel is aware of the capabilities of the Assad regime. As it was unsure of the new management’s stance, it formulated a very risky strategy to eliminate all its military capabilities (from Syria).”
Adding another layer of complexity to the situation, Minister fidan announced Turkey’s plan to reopen its embassy in Damascus, closed as 2012. He stated, “The staff left there today and the embassy will be operational tomorrow.” Regarding the interim Syrian government, Fidan expressed confidence, saying, “What thay say coincides with what they do; they are on the right path.” He also revealed ongoing negotiations with Russia and Iran to end their support for the former Assad regime.
The recent events in Syria have significant implications for regional stability and global security. The ongoing conflict and the power vacuum created by the Assad regime’s fall raise concerns about potential further escalation and the spread of instability. The international community is closely monitoring the situation and working to find a peaceful resolution.
Israel’s Recent Airstrikes in Syria: An expert analysis
sarah Jones,Senior Editor at world-today-news.com: Welcome back too World Today News. Today, we’re discussing the recent escalation of tensions in Syria following a series of airstrikes conducted by Israel.Joining us is Dr. Dina Shehadeh, a regional security analyst and senior fellow at the Institute for Middle Eastern Studies.Dr. Shehadeh, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Dina Shehadeh: thank you for having me.
Sarah Jones: Since Friday, Israel has carried out over 480 strikes across Syria. This is a significant escalation in Israeli activity within the country.What do you see as the primary motivations behind these actions?
Dr. Dina Shehadeh: The timing of these strikes is certainly noteworthy, coming shortly after the fall of the Assad regime and the power vacuum that followed. There are several factors at play here.Israel has consistently expressed concern about Iran’s growing influence in Syria and its support for Hezbollah. Striking at suspected Syrian military installations and Iranian-backed militias could be seen as a tactic to prevent them from consolidating their presence in the region.
Sarah Jones: Turkey has also expressed strong disapproval of these airstrikes, calling for Israel to cease its bombing campaign and withdraw from the Golan Heights. How do you think this will impact the already complex geopolitical landscape in Syria?
Dr. Dina shehadeh: Turkey’s response highlights the intricate web of interests involved in the Syrian conflict. ankara is deeply concerned about Kurdish militias operating near its borders and has its own ambitions in the region. While Turkey and Israel don’t always see eye-to-eye, thay do share concerns about iranian influence. We could see a period of heightened tensions and diplomatic maneuvering as these regional powers navigate the changing dynamics in Syria. The reopening of Turkey’s embassy in Damascus further complicates the situation, signaling a shift in their policy toward the interim Syrian government.
Sarah Jones: Given the power vacuum in the aftermath of the Assad regime’s fall,what are the broader implications for regional stability and global security?
Dr. Dina Shehadeh: This is a critical juncture. The power vacuum created by the Assad regime’s fall raises serious concerns.It could lead to further fragmentation, factional fighting, and the resurgence of extremist groups. The risk of regional spillover is very real,with neighboring countries possibly getting drawn into the conflict. The international community needs to work collectively to prevent a further descent into chaos and find a lasting solution to the Syrian crisis. Diplomacy, humanitarian assistance, and efforts to rebuild institutions are crucial for stabilizing the situation.
Sarah Jones: Dr. Shehadeh, thank you so much for sharing your expertise and insights on this complex situation. We appreciate your time.
Dr. Dina Shehadeh: It was my pleasure.
