Israel has intensified its airstrikes across Syria, targeting military and ammunition sites, just days after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, condemned the strikes but stressed the nation’s focus on reconstruction and stability, avoiding further conflict.
Dozens of Israeli Airstrikes Shake Syria
Israeli airstrikes have hit more than 60 locations in Syria within the past 12 hours, with a focus on military warehouses, air defense systems, and infrastructure in Damascus and its outskirts. Over the past week, Israeli forces have reportedly conducted about 800 air raids across Syria, according to local reports.
Explosions have become a routine occurrence in Damascus. Al Jazeera’s reporters confirmed that key military depots and defensive sites, including Hama airport and locations in Homs and Deraa, were destroyed. The United Nations criticized Israel for crossing the disengagement line in the Golan Heights, a move that violates the 1974 armistice agreement.
New Leadership Urges Caution
Ahmed al-Sharaa, leader of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and Syria’s de facto head, acknowledged the severity of Israel’s actions, calling them an unjustified escalation. However, he emphasized that Syria cannot afford a new conflict after years of devastating war.
“The exhaustion in Syria leaves no room for new battles,” al-Sharaa stated in Damascus. “Our priority is reconstruction and disarming all factions. No weapons should exist outside the authority of the state.”
Despite Israel’s violations, al-Sharaa has made it clear that Syria’s focus is on rebuilding, not confrontation. He called for unity and stability as the nation moves forward.
Israel Defends Its Actions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the strikes, stating that Israel’s aim is to prevent potential threats near its borders. He denied intentions to escalate into a full-scale conflict with Syria but justified the airstrikes as a preemptive measure.
Experts suggest Israel’s actions stem from uncertainty regarding Syria’s new leadership. “Israel is striking Syria because they are cautious and unclear about who holds power now,” said Rob Geist Pinfold, a lecturer in peace and security.
Read: Israeli Airstrikes in Gaza Kill 17, Including Deir el-Balah Mayor
International Reactions and US Engagement
The United States has initiated contact with HTS and other parties in Syria, despite HTS being designated as a terrorist organization in 2018. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the talks without detailing the nature of the communication.
In a recent meeting in Jordan, US and Arab diplomats emphasized the need for a Syrian-led transition to an inclusive and representative government. The UN envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, urged lifting sanctions on opposition fighters and increasing humanitarian aid.
Rebuilding Amid Conflict
Syria’s new leadership faces a delicate balancing act. Al-Sharaa’s administration must prioritize reconstruction while managing external pressures from Israel and internal challenges. Though the airstrikes continue to destabilize the region, the commitment to rebuilding offers a glimmer of hope for a nation weary of war.
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