Israeli airstrikes in Damascus targeted Palestinian Islamic Jihad, killing at least 15 and injuring others. Concurrently, Israel intensified strikes in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah. Military officials emphasize the importance of these operations to prevent Iranian influence and weapon transfers in the region.
On Thursday, Israeli fighter jets conducted airstrikes in Damascus, Syria, targeting sites linked to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 individuals, including women and children, as reported by Syrian state media. The strikes originated around 3:20 p.m. local time in the al-Mezzeh neighborhood, causing significant destruction to various buildings. In response to these operations, the Israeli military articulated that they had “inflicted significant damage” to a command center used by the militia. Further asserting their military strategy, Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi remarked on the ongoing nature of these actions to thwart weapon transfers to Hezbollah, a key Iranian ally operating in the region. Simultaneously, Israel has maintained an extensive campaign of strikes in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah, claiming the elimination of numerous fighters and the dismantling of over 140 rocket launchers. This campaign reflects a continued focus on curbing the influence of Iranian-backed forces in both Syria and Lebanon.
The ongoing conflict involving Israel, Syria, and Lebanon is deeply rooted in regional tensions, particularly concerning Iranian influence through proxy groups such as Hezbollah and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Israel has routinely targeted military assets in Syria to disrupt these groups’ operations and prevent the transfer of advanced weaponry to Hezbollah, which poses a significant threat to Israeli security. The recent increase in strikes underscores the heightened volatility in the region and Israel’s vigilance in protecting its borders.
In summary, Israel’s airstrikes in Syria and ongoing military actions in Lebanon illustrate its staunch efforts to mitigate threats posed by Iranian-backed organizations. The recent violence has resulted in significant casualties and reflects the increasingly precarious security situation in the region. As these actions continue, international observers watch for potential escalations in an already tense geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
