Israel launched a series of airstrikes on military targets in Syria early Friday, escalating tensions in a region already fraught with conflict. Syrian state media reported that the strikes hit areas near the capital, Damascus, and the central city of Homs.
According to the Syrian Ministry of Defense, several missiles were intercepted by air defense systems. However, some managed to hit their targets, causing injuries and structural damage. The ministry called the attack “a flagrant violation of Syrian sovereignty and international law.”
Though Israel has not officially commented, the country has long maintained a policy of targeting Iranian-backed forces and Hezbollah positions within Syria. Israeli officials argue that Iran’s presence in Syria poses a direct threat to Israeli national security.
This latest strike follows a pattern of increased military activity in recent months, as Israel intensifies efforts to disrupt weapons transfers and prevent the buildup of hostile forces along its northern border.
In response, the Syrian government condemned the attack and called on the international community to intervene. Iran and Russia, both key allies of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, also issued strong statements condemning Israel’s actions.
The United Nations has expressed concern over the rising hostilities, urging all parties to exercise restraint. UN officials warned that continued strikes could worsen the humanitarian crisis in Syria, where millions remain displaced after more than a decade of civil war.
The situation remains volatile, with regional observers closely monitoring for signs of further escalation.
