Israel has launched an extensive military operation in Syria, marking a significant escalation following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Over the past two days, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) executed 480 strikes across Syrian territory, targeting strategic weapon stockpiles and deploying ground forces beyond the buffer zone for the first time in five decades.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced the destruction of the Syrian navy, calling the operation a “great success.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described Assad’s downfall as a pivotal moment, stating, “We are changing the face of the Middle East.” He attributed the Syrian regime’s collapse to Israel’s relentless attacks on Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.
The IDF confirmed that 350 airstrikes targeted key military assets, including airfields, anti-aircraft systems, missile depots, and drones, while naval operations destroyed two Syrian naval facilities and 15 vessels. Ground operations focused on securing southern Syria, creating what Israel called a “security zone free of heavy weapons and terrorist infrastructure.”
Concerns Over Syria’s Future
While Israel celebrates Assad’s fall, officials express apprehension about radical Islamist factions potentially gaining control in Syria, which shares a border with Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar highlighted efforts to prevent chemical weapons and advanced missiles from reaching extremist groups.
Voice of the Capital, a Syrian activist group, reported the strikes as the most intense Damascus has faced in 15 years, with widespread destruction evident in cities like Homs, Tartus, Latakia, and Palmyra. AFP images revealed obliterated military assets, including Syrian helicopters at Mezzeh Air Base and destroyed vessels at the Latakia naval port.
Ground Forces Advance Beyond Buffer Zone
Israeli forces have advanced several kilometers into Syrian territory, reaching Beqaasem, approximately 25 kilometers from Damascus. This village lies near Mount Hermon, a strategic high point recently captured by Israeli troops. The area sits at the crossroads of Syria, Lebanon, and the Golan Heights.
Netanyahu had earlier ordered the military to secure the demilitarized “area of separation” established in 1974. While Israel has insisted that its actions are temporary and defensive, critics accuse it of leveraging Syria’s instability to annex more territory.
International Reactions and Allegations
Arab states have condemned Israel’s actions, accusing it of exploiting Syria’s internal crisis. The Arab League labeled the incursions a land grab, while Egypt criticized Israel for seizing territory under the guise of security.
Israeli officials, however, deny such allegations. Katz defended the incursion, stating it aims to neutralize threats near Israel’s borders. Ambassador Danny Dannon assured the UN Security Council that the military’s deployment is “limited and temporary,” emphasizing Israel’s focus on safeguarding its citizens.
Escalation in the Region
Israel’s aggressive military campaign underscores its strategic objectives in the region, with Netanyahu pledging to reshape the Middle East. The operation not only disrupts Iran’s influence but also challenges Syria’s future stability, leaving the region on edge as tensions escalate further.
