Israeli Strikes in Syria: Six Soldiers Killed, Tensions Rise
In escalating tensions, a series of Israeli drone strikes near Damascus resulted in the deaths of six Syrian soldiers, according to Syrian state-run Al-Ekhbariya TV. Syria has condemned the attacks as a violation of its sovereignty, while the Israeli military has yet to officially confirm or deny these reports. Amid this, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expressed its total rejection
of what it called a violation of sovereignty.
Background and Context
Israel has reportedly carried out multiple rounds of airstrikes on the Damascus countryside within a span of 24 hours. The strikes targeted what Israel claims to be military sites in the areas of al-Kiswah and Tal el-Manea, south of the capital. This comes as Syria and Israel are holding US-mediated talks to reach a security deal.
Key Developments
According to reports, the Israeli military conducted an airborne landing near Damascus and operated for two hours. Israeli forces are also said to have landed at a former air-defence base in southern Syria, their farthest operation inside Syria since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last December. The base, located near the city of al-Kiswah, was previously used by Iranian militias during Assad’s rule.
The Israeli military is said to remain on Syrian territory near Mount Hermon. Israel reportedly deployed 60 soldiers to seize a strategic hilltop overlooking Beit Jinn, a move Syria has decried as a violation of its sovereignty and a threat to regional security. Local residents reported that Israeli forces also detained six Syrians during the operation.
Reactions and Implications
The recent strikes and military operations have sparked international concern. The UAE issued a statement condemning the Israeli army's actions as a flagrant violation of international law and the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Syria and Israel. It has called on the international community to intervene and halt the escalation of tensions.
Syria has urged the UN Security Council to compel Israel to cease its attacks on Syrian territory, asserting its right to self-defense.
Conclusion
The current situation represents a major escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Syria. The death of Syrian soldiers and the reported invasion by Israeli troops have further strained relations between the two countries, leading to calls for international intervention. The Israeli military, however, has yet to officially comment on the reported strikes and operations.