In a recent escalation of tensions in the region, Israel conducted a military strike targeting areas around Damascus, marking the second such operation in consecutive days. According to Syria's Ministry of Defense, these strikes specifically aimed at military installations, with the Syrian air defenses managing to intercept several of the incoming missiles.
The operations are believed to have targeted assets belonging to Hezbollah, a key ally of the Syrian government, and a group that Israel contends is being armed by Syria to pose a direct threat to its security. A security source, speaking to Saudi media, highlighted that the strike was directed at a base utilized by Syrian forces and Hezbollah operatives. The source emphasized the problematic nature of Syria's continued weapon transfers to Hezbollah, suggesting that such actions necessitate increased Israeli military responses. Furthermore, they warned that Syria's persistent support for Hezbollah and Iran fundamentally undermines its prospects for achieving stability, ultimately placing the burden of these geopolitical tensions on the Syrian populace.
Some initial but unconfirmed reports about strikes by #Israel in #Syria tonight around Damascus. Video circulating below. pic.twitter.com/yB7ci549a2
ā Jason Brodsky (@JasonMBrodsky) March 18, 2024
This latest strike closely follows a similar operation that purportedly targeted Hezbollah positions around Damascus, leading to significant explosions in the area after hitting ammunition depots. Reports suggest that the munitions destroyed in the attack had been supplied by Iran, intended for Hezbollah's use against Israel.
The Syrian defense ministry acknowledged the attacks, stating that Israel had launched missiles at various military sites outside Damascus, causing some material damage. Despite these provocations, the ministry also reported that their air defenses had successfully downed some of the incoming projectiles.
DEVELOPING | Syrian Defense Ministry: 'Air defense activated over the skies of Damascus, Syria, as targets were struck on the ground resulting in material loses.'
ā dan linnaeus (@DanLinnaeus) March 17, 2024
The Syrian Ministry of Defence issued a statement regarding the overnight strikes in Syria, just over an hour ago,ā¦ pic.twitter.com/YVrAhyvjMB
The targeted military structures were located in the al-Kalmon area, according to additional reports. This region's significance stems from Iran's substantial support for the Assad regime throughout the ongoing Syrian conflict, now nearing its twelfth year. Iran's involvement, particularly its backing of Hezbollah, has frequently drawn Israeli airstrikes aimed at limiting Tehran's military influence beyond its borders.
These recent strikes coincide with increased regional tensions following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7. The aftermath of this incident has seen intensified Israeli actions against Iranian interests in Syria, including the elimination of several officers from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards since December. In response to these developments, the Guards have reportedly adjusted their strategy in Syria, opting to decrease the visibility of their senior officers and instead leveraging allied Shiite militias to maintain their influence in the region.
