Israeli military operations in Syria continue to escalate, with a series of airstrikes and ground incursions targeting various locations across the country. The latest attack on Monday in Daraa resulted in four civilian deaths, including a young man who succumbed to injuries two days later. According to the Free Houran League, Israeli warplanes targeted military sites in the Dahiya neighborhood, killing three civilians instantly and injuring 19 others, including children and first responders.
Israeli Occupation Intensify Attacks
In addition to airstrikes, Israeli forces have expanded their occupation in Syria’s southern regions, advancing into villages in the Quneitra countryside and seizing strategic areas, including Mount Hermon. Military bases are reportedly being constructed along the border, solidifying Israel’s presence in the region.
Over the past week, Israeli warplanes have bombed multiple sites, including the T4 military airport near Palmyra, which housed former Iranian-backed militia positions before the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The Israeli military claimed the strikes targeted “strategic military capabilities” still present within Syrian army bases.
Growing Geopolitical Tensions
The evolving situation in Syria is also shaped by shifting regional dynamics, particularly the growing involvement of Turkey. As Syria’s new government consolidates power, Ankara has signaled its willingness to support Damascus in rebuilding its military. Reports indicate that Turkey plans to supply advanced defense systems and assist in restructuring the Syrian armed forces.
This development complicates Israel’s strategic interests. Turkey’s potential military support to Syria could restore air defense capabilities weakened by Israeli strikes, limiting Israel’s ability to conduct operations deep inside Syria. Additionally, Ankara’s increasing influence in the region has raised concerns in Israel about a potential shift in the regional power balance.
According to the Associated Press, the fallout from the fall of the Assad regime has heightened tensions between Turkey and Israel, with both nations pursuing competing interests in Syria. If Turkey strengthens Syria’s military infrastructure, Israel may face greater challenges in air campaigns or expanding invasion and occupation operations within Syrian territory.
Calls for Dialogue
Amid the escalating conflict, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has urged Israel to reconsider its approach to Syria. In an interview with Al-Monitor, Olmert called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to recognize the legitimacy of Syria’s new leadership and engage in direct talks.
“Achieving security understandings in the short term could lead to a major shift in our relations with Syria,” Olmert said. He emphasized that Israel is “missing a historic opportunity” to build peaceful ties with Damascus, which could also pave the way for improved relations with Lebanon.
The former prime minister suggested that Israel could negotiate a long-term lease agreement over the occupied Golan Heights, maintaining its control while recognizing Syrian sovereignty. Olmert also encouraged the international community, particularly France, to facilitate discussions between the two countries.
With tensions escalating on multiple fronts, analysts argue that Israel must carefully navigate its military strategy while weighing the potential benefits of diplomatic engagement with Syria’s new government.
