Israeli warplanes launched a series of airstrikes on Syrian military positions in Latakia Governorate late Wednesday, marking an escalation in cross-border attacks as the region faces renewed conflict.
Over 400 Israeli Bombings in the Region
According to Syria’s state-run news agency SANA, the airstrikes targeted military facilities near the White Port and the 110th Naval Brigade in the Ras Shamra area. Loud explosions rocked Latakia city and its countryside, with videos on social media showing flames rising from the targeted sites. Syrian authorities have yet to confirm any casualties.
Local sources reported that the attacks focused on naval bases and weapons depots, suggesting an effort to cripple Syria’s remaining military infrastructure. Local sources described the strikes as “intensive,” with multiple waves of bombardment hitting the port and surrounding areas.
The Israeli military has not officially commented on the strikes, but earlier on Wednesday, it announced that it had bombed over 430 targets in Syria, Lebanon, and the Gaza Strip since resuming its military campaign early this week.
Rising Tensions on Multiple Fronts
The latest attacks come amid an uptick in Israeli operations inside Syria following the fall of the Assad regime on Dec. 8. Since then, Israeli forces have intensified efforts to dismantle remaining Syrian military sites, carrying out hundreds of airstrikes while launching ground incursions into the Damascus, Quneitra, and Daraa countrysides.
On Tuesday, Israeli tanks shelled the village of Koya in western Daraa, killing six civilians. Local reports suggest the attack followed an incursion attempt by illegally occupying Israeli forces, which was met with resistance from village residents. The Israeli army has not provided details on the operation.
Daraa 24, a local monitoring network, reported that Israeli troops tried to infiltrate Koya through a nearby valley but were forced to retreat after encountering armed resistance. Hours later, Israeli tanks shelled the town, resulting in additional casualties.
A Pattern of Escalation
Israel has in the past repeatedly targeted military positions in Syria, arguing that its strikes aim to prevent Iranian-backed forces from gaining a foothold near its borders. However, the latest wave of attacks suggests a broader strategy to dismantle Syria’s military capabilities entirely.
Thursday morning’s airstrikes in Latakia fit into this pattern, striking a key naval installation and weapons storage sites. The White Port, a strategic location that previously housed warships and ammunition depots, was among the primary targets.
In response, Syria has condemned the Israeli attacks, calling them a violation of its sovereignty. The government has vowed to take necessary measures to protect its territory, though its ability to respond remains limited. Israeli aggression across multiple fronts, including Gaza, Lebanon, and now Syria, remains a destabilizing force, risking broader conflict in the region.
