Israeli jets conducted airstrikes targeting former Syrian army outposts in central Syria, specifically near Homs, without immediate reports of casualties. The strikes are part of a series aimed at preventing weapon transfers to Syria’s new authorities amidst heightened tensions following President Assad’s December ousting. Recent incidents also involved civilian casualties in Daraa.
On Tuesday, Israeli jets executed airstrikes on military establishments in central Syria, forming part of a broader campaign against Syrian military positions in recent days. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that these airstrikes targeted a missile battalion near Homs, leading to multiple explosions; however, no immediate casualties were reported.
Two security sources informed Reuters that the strikes specifically targeted former Syrian army outposts in the villages of Shinshar and Shamsin, located south of Homs city, focusing on army fortifications believed to contain military equipment. As of now, the Israeli military has refrained from commenting on these actions.
These airstrikes are occurring during heightened tensions following Israel’s increased military operations in Syrian territory following President Bashar al-Assad’s removal in December. Israel asserts that these operations aim to obstruct weapons transfers to Syria’s interim authorities, which it alleges have links to jihadist factions.
In a separate incident on Monday, airstrikes in the southern city of Daraa reportedly resulted in the deaths of three civilians, according to Syrian authorities. Additionally, a prior strike targeted a Palestinian Islamic Jihad command center in Damascus, leading to one reported fatality.
Beyond airstrikes, Israel has stationed troops in a United Nations-patrolled buffer zone on the strategically significant Golan Heights and has advocated for the complete demilitarization of southern Syria bordering its territory since the downfall of Assad.
In summary, Israeli airstrikes on military positions in Syria represent a continuation of strategic operations amid escalating tensions following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. The targeted strikes, which hit significant military outposts near Homs and resulted in potential fatalities, reflect Israel’s broader objectives of disrupting arms transfers and maintaining regional security. This situation illustrates the volatile dynamics in an increasingly complex conflict environment.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
