Israeli Strikes Hit Former Syrian Regime’s Fourth Division Offices in Damascus
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – On Sunday, Israeli airstrikes targeted sensitive security offices affiliated with the former Syrian regime’s Fourth Division in the Mezzeh district of Damascus, according to local reports.
This development follows the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government earlier in the day, with opposition forces declaring the regime’s fall and the complete disbandment of its military apparatus.
Targeting Key Security Installations
The airstrikes struck what were reportedly key offices used by the Fourth Division, one of the most powerful military units under the former regime. The Mezzeh district, a well-fortified area housing government and military institutions, has historically been a frequent target of Israeli operations due to its strategic importance.
A North Press correspondent confirmed the strikes, stating, “Israeli airstrikes targeted sensitive security offices of the former regime’s Fourth Division in the Mezzeh district.”
Details about the scale of damage or casualties remain unclear, as access to the site was restricted due to the high security surrounding the area.
A Day of Upheaval
The strikes come on a day of dramatic developments in Syria. Earlier, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied opposition factions announced the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime via a statement broadcast on state television.
The announcement included confirmation of the military’s disbandment and the withdrawal of remaining forces. This rapid collapse marked a turning point after years of civil war and widespread unrest in the country.
Israel’s Role Amid Syrian Turmoil
Israel has long been involved in striking targets within Syria, often citing threats posed by Iranian-backed militias and Hezbollah fighters stationed in the country. With the disintegration of the Assad regime, Israeli actions appear to be aimed at neutralizing any lingering security threats and preventing the reorganization of hostile forces.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking from near the Syrian border earlier in the day, described recent events in Syria as “historic.” He attributed the downfall of Assad’s government to the weakening of its Iranian and Hezbollah backers.
“Today marks a historic shift in the Middle East, one that underscores the consequences of years of pressure on Iran and its proxies,” Netanyahu said.
Impact on Mezzeh District
The Mezzeh district, located in the western part of Damascus, is known for housing key government buildings, embassies, and military installations. It has been a focus of multiple Israeli strikes in the past, given its strategic value and the presence of high-ranking officials and security units.
The Fourth Division, led by Bashar al-Assad’s brother Maher al-Assad until the regime’s collapse, was particularly notorious for its role in suppressing dissent during the civil war.
Uncertainty and Regional Ramifications
The collapse of the Assad regime has left Syria in a state of uncertainty. The power vacuum has raised concerns about further instability, as various factions and regional players vie for influence.
Israel’s continued strikes underscore its determination to prevent any resurgence of threats along its northern border. However, the targeting of sensitive former regime installations also raises questions about the next phase of Israeli involvement in Syria.
Unclear Casualties and Damage
Due to restricted access and ongoing security concerns, it remains unclear how many casualties resulted from the strikes or the extent of the material damage caused.
As events continue to unfold, the Mezzeh strikes represent a significant moment in Syria’s evolving conflict, signaling that even with the regime’s fall, the country’s security landscape remains volatile.