Late on Tuesday night, Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on a town south of Syria’s capital, Damascus, as well as another location in the southern province of Daraa. The attacks caused loud explosions that could be heard across the capital. Residents in Damascus reported seeing warplanes flying low over the city multiple times before the bombardment began.
The first strike hit Kisweh, a town located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) south of Damascus. According to a Syrian security source, a military site was the target of the attack, though no further details were provided. The local broadcaster, Syria TV, also confirmed the attack but did not report on any casualties or damage.
At the same time, another Israeli air raid was carried out in the southern province of Daraa. A resident in the area reported hearing explosions, and Syria TV also confirmed the attack in its coverage. The full extent of the damage remains unclear as officials have not released an official statement.
Rising Tensions Between Israel and Syria
The latest strikes come at a time of heightened tension between Israel and Syria. Just hours before the attack, Syria had condemned Israel’s military activities in the southern part of the country. A national summit held in Syria called for Israel to withdraw from the region, saying its presence was a violation of international agreements.
Recently, Israel had moved its forces into a demilitarized zone in Syria. This zone, which is monitored by the United Nations, was supposed to remain free of military presence. However, after rebels led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a former Al Qaeda-linked group, took control of the area in December, Israel decided to act. Israeli officials have said they will not allow HTS or any other armed groups connected to Syria’s new rulers to operate near their borders.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a statement on Sunday, making it clear that Israel would not tolerate these forces in southern Syria. He also called for the area to remain demilitarized, stressing that Israel would take necessary actions to prevent any threats.
No Official Response from Israel Yet
Despite the widespread reports of the airstrikes, Israel’s military has not officially commented on the attacks. However, the country has carried out similar strikes in Syria in the past, often targeting military sites and groups it considers a threat.
This is not the first time Israeli airstrikes have hit the area around Damascus. Over the years, Israel has launched multiple attacks, mostly targeting weapons depots, military installations, and groups linked to Iran and Hezbollah. Israel claims these strikes are necessary to stop the buildup of hostile forces near its borders.
As of now, there is no official information on casualties or damage caused by the latest airstrikes. Residents in the affected areas remain on high alert as tensions between the two countries continue to rise. The situation remains volatile, with fears of further escalation in the coming days.