Israeli Strikes Damage Syria’s Airports in Response to Hamas Assault
Israeli strikes have caused significant damage to Syria’s main airports, according to Syrian state media. These strikes, which occurred on Thursday, mark the first attack since the recent Hamas assault on Israel. The airports affected are located in the capital Damascus and the northern city of Aleppo, both under the control of the war-torn Syrian government.
The simultaneous strikes resulted in the destruction of landing strips at both airports, rendering them out of service. A military source, cited by Syrian state media, described the strikes as a desperate attempt by Israel to divert attention from the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.
Israel has a history of launching air strikes on Syria throughout the past decade of war. These strikes primarily target Iran-backed forces, Lebanese Hezbollah fighters, and Syrian army positions. While Israel rarely comments on individual strikes, it has consistently expressed its determination to prevent Iran from expanding its influence in Syria, where it supports President Bashar Assad’s government.
The recent strikes come amidst the exchange of heavy fire between Hamas and Israel, which has been ongoing for six days. The conflict escalated when hundreds of Hamas gunmen crossed the Gaza border into Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians.
The timing of these strikes is notable, as they occurred during a visit by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Israel. Additionally, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi called on Arab and Islamic countries to cooperate in confronting Israel during a telephone call with President Assad.
It is important to note that Iran supports Hamas, and while it celebrated Hamas’ assault on Israel, it denies direct involvement in the conflict.
The Israeli strikes on Syria’s airports highlight the complex dynamics at play in the region. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has broader implications and involves various actors with their own agendas.
Israel’s determination to prevent Iran from gaining a stronger foothold in Syria is a key factor in its repeated strikes on the country. Iran’s support for Hamas further complicates the situation, as it aligns the Palestinian group with Israel’s regional adversary.
The destruction of landing strips at Syria’s airports will have significant consequences for the country’s aviation industry. The grounding of flights will disrupt travel and trade, further exacerbating the challenges faced by a nation already devastated by years of war.
While the Israeli strikes may be seen as a response to the Hamas assault, they also serve as a reminder of the ongoing conflicts and power struggles in the Middle East. The region remains volatile, with multiple actors vying for influence and pursuing their own interests.
As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial for international actors to engage in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and find a peaceful resolution. The Israeli strikes on Syria’s airports underscore the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of conflicts and promotes stability in the region.
In conclusion, the recent Israeli strikes on Syria’s main airports have caused significant damage and disrupted air travel in the country. These strikes come in response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as Israel’s determination to prevent Iran from expanding its influence in Syria. The situation highlights the complex dynamics and power struggles in the Middle East, underscoring the need for diplomatic efforts to achieve peace and stability.