By Anthony Marcus, correspondent – Eurasia Business News. December 11, 2024. Article no 1329.

Israel has launched a significant military operation in Syria, conducting over 300 airstrikes across various military sites in response to the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. The strikes, which began over the weekend and intensified on December 10, target key military installations to prevent weapons from falling into the hands of extremist groups, after the fall of President Assad on December 8.

Scope of Attacks: The Israeli air force has targeted military facilities in Damascus, Homs, Latakia, and Daraa, focusing on research centers, weapons depots, airports, and naval assets. Notably, the strikes have damaged Syrian naval vessels and air defense systems, rendering several military sites inoperable.

Casualties and Damage: Reports indicate that these attacks have resulted in at least two fatalities and caused extensive damage to critical military infrastructure. The strikes have been described as the most intense in Damascus in 15 years, with loud explosions reported throughout the capital.

Strategic Objectives

Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Saar, have stated that the operations aim to dismantle potential threats from chemical weapons and long-range missile stockpiles that could be seized by hostile factions following Assad’s regime collapse. Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that these actions are necessary for Israel’s security, particularly given concerns about Iranian influence in Syria.

Broader Context

The backdrop for these military actions is a power vacuum created by Assad’s downfall, which has led to increased instability in Syria. Israel’s strategy appears to be focused on preventing the establishment of a hostile regime along its borders while also asserting its military dominance in the region. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that any new Syrian leadership allowing Iranian re-establishment or weapons transfers would face similar consequences as the previous regime.

Advertisements

This escalation highlights the ongoing complexities of regional security dynamics and Israel’s proactive stance in safeguarding its interests amid shifting power balances in neighboring Syria.

Our community already has nearly 145,000 readers!

Subscribe to our Telegram channel

Follow us on Telegram, Facebook and Twitter

© Copyright 2024 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 1329.