Israel Claims Destruction of Syrian Military Infrastructure Amid Rising Tensions
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Israel announced on Thursday that it has destroyed Syrian military weapons and infrastructure over recent weeks, escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing geopolitical instability.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that their operations targeted facilities housing weapons, ammunition depots, and military airports. In a statement, the IDF noted that “forces from the Golan Brigade 474 are conducting defensive operations to ensure the security of Israeli citizens and the Golan Heights.”
The spokesperson elaborated that armored, engineering, and infantry units are engaged in clearing areas under their control, seizing and destroying Syrian military equipment and infrastructure to prevent their use against Israeli forces or civilians.
Military Gains Reported
In one such operation, Israeli forces reportedly uncovered an armored personnel carrier containing a cache of anti-tank missiles, explosives, and other weaponry. According to the IDF, “all materials were confiscated and destroyed to prevent their use by hostile actors.”
The Israeli strikes reportedly targeted key military sites, including Mezzeh Military Airport, resulting in the destruction of several aircraft and facilities. Images of the wreckage circulated widely, highlighting the intensity of the strikes.
While Israel has consistently conducted airstrikes in Syria, targeting what it claims are Iranian military assets and Hezbollah strongholds, the recent operations mark an escalation in its targeting of Syrian military infrastructure.
UN Condemnation
On Wednesday, Geir Pedersen, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, expressed concern over the Israeli military activities. He emphasized the need for Israel to respect Syria’s sovereignty, stating, “The attacks are alarming and must cease. Violations of Syrian sovereignty exacerbate an already fragile situation, threatening prospects for a structured political transition.”
Pedersen’s comments reflect broader international concerns that the continued Israeli strikes could undermine efforts to stabilize Syria, which remains fractured after over a decade of conflict.
Historical Context
Since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, Israel has frequently targeted Syrian military sites and Iranian-backed militia positions. These strikes, justified by Israel as necessary for national security, aim to curb Iran’s influence in Syria and prevent arms transfers to Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Regional Implications
The Golan Heights, a contentious region occupied by Israel since 1967, has become a focal point for Israeli operations. While Israel maintains that its actions are defensive, the ongoing strikes have heightened tensions with both Syria and its regional allies.
A Path Forward
The UN and other international bodies continue to call for restraint and dialogue to address the underlying issues fueling the conflict. However, with no immediate resolution in sight, the region remains on edge as competing interests clash.
Israel’s military strategy and the international community’s response will play a critical role in determining whether the fragile balance can be maintained or if the conflict will spiral further.