Israel has escalated its military operations in Syria, launching over 350 airstrikes in the past 48 hours and advancing into a buffer zone, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and Israeli officials on Tuesday. The strikes targeted key assets, including weapon stockpiles, air defense systems, military airfields, and missile depots in Damascus and other cities. The offensive comes in the wake of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime being overthrown by rebel forces.
The Israeli military confirmed that its naval forces targeted two Syrian naval facilities, destroying multiple vessels. “We have neutralized the majority of Syria’s strategic weapons stockpiles to prevent them from falling into extremist hands,” stated Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz. Private security firm Ambrey reported evidence of at least six Soviet-era missile ships being destroyed.
Speaking from a naval base in Haifa, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz outlined plans to establish a “demilitarized zone free of weapons and terrorist threats in southern Syria” to ensure regional stability. “Anyone who follows Assad’s path will face the same fate. We will not permit an extremist Islamic entity to threaten Israel,” Katz declared.
Buffer Zone Controversy
Israel confirmed advancing into a 400-square-kilometer buffer zone within Syrian territory, originally established after the 1973 Mideast War. Officials stressed that the move is solely to prevent potential attacks on Israeli citizens and does not signify an intention to occupy new territory. Lt. Col. Nadav Shoshani, an Israeli military spokesperson, dismissed reports of troops advancing toward Damascus, emphasizing that forces remain within the buffer zone for defensive purposes.
The buffer zone’s proximity to Damascus—just 40 kilometers (25 miles)—has escalated tensions. Historically a volatile region, it adds to the controversy surrounding Israel’s previous annexation of the Golan Heights, which remains internationally disputed except by the United States.
How Did Rebel Group HTS React?
There has been no immediate response from Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the insurgent group now controlling much of Syria. Their rapid advance ended the Assad family’s five-decade rule after nearly 14 years of civil war, leaving uncertainty about Syria’s future.
Regional and International Criticism
Israel’s incursions have sparked condemnation from neighboring countries and international organizations. Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia accused Israel of exploiting Syria’s turmoil and violating international law. Turkey, a key backer of Syrian opposition forces, called Israel’s actions “occupational” and counterproductive to peace efforts in Syria.
The United Nations also expressed concern. Spokesman Stephane Dujarric urged both Israel and Syria to comply with the 1974 disengagement agreement. “This incursion violates the agreement and risks further destabilizing the region,” he warned.
Post-Assad Power Vacuum
The fall of Bashar al-Assad has plunged Syria into uncertainty. With HTS now controlling significant territory, the nation’s political future remains unclear. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that recent strikes aimed to dismantle the former regime’s military infrastructure and expressed openness to establishing relations with Syria’s new leadership.
