Israel intensified its military operations in Syria overnight, carrying out a series of airstrikes on key military installations. The attacks, which targeted air bases and sites near Damascus and the southwest, were described by Israeli officials as a warning to Syria’s new Islamist rulers following the ousting of President Bashar Assad in December. Israel also accused Turkey of attempting to transform Syria into its protectorate, further heightening regional tensions.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that their troops, stationed in the southwest region of Syria after Assad's removal, encountered gunfire from militants. The IDF responded by eliminating several attackers. Meanwhile, Syria’s state news agency, SANA, reported that Israeli shelling had resulted in the deaths of nine individuals in the area.

Israel Justifies Strikes, Warns Syria of Consequences

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz defended the military actions, emphasising that the strikes were meant to serve as a deterrent against any threats to Israeli security. “These airstrikes send a clear message—we will not allow harm to the State of Israel,” Katz declared, adding that Israeli forces would maintain control over buffer zones within Syria and act against any perceived dangers.

Echoing these concerns, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Turkey of exploiting the situation in Syria. Speaking in Paris, Saar said, “Turkey is playing a negative role not only in Syria but also in Lebanon and other regions. It is evident they are striving to turn Syria into a Turkish protectorate.”

Syria’s foreign ministry condemned the strikes, describing them as an unjustified escalation aimed at destabilising the country. It urged the international community to pressure Israel into ceasing its aggression.

Air Base Destroyed in Major Strikes

Wednesday night’s attacks were among Israel’s most intense operations in Syria since Assad’s removal. Syrian authorities reported that within 30 minutes, five separate locations were struck, leading to severe damage and casualties. The air base in Hama was nearly destroyed, with runways, control towers, weapons depots, and aircraft hangars demolished. A Syrian military source informed Reuters, “Israel has completely destroyed Hama air base to ensure it is not used.”

Israel also targeted the T4 air base in Homs province, a site it has attacked multiple times in recent weeks. The Israeli military confirmed it had struck remaining military facilities in Hama and Homs, along with key infrastructure in Damascus, including a site near a scientific research facility.

Clashes in Southern Syria

In southwestern Syria, Israeli forces were conducting operations in Tasil, aiming to seize weapons and dismantle terrorist infrastructure, when they came under fire. According to the Israeli military, their troops responded with both ground and aerial strikes, eliminating several militants. No Israeli casualties were reported.

“The presence of weapons in southern Syria poses a direct threat to Israel,” an Israeli military statement read. “The IDF will not tolerate military threats from Syria and will continue to act against them.”

Israel has frequently conducted airstrikes in Syria, particularly during Assad’s reign, targeting Iranian military positions. However, the latest escalation underscores Israel’s increasing concerns over Syria’s shifting political landscape and growing Turkish influence in the region.

As tensions persist, both Syria and Israel remain locked in a cycle of retaliation, with international powers closely monitoring the evolving situation.