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Israel conducted airstrikes on locations in Syria where chemical weapons and long-range missiles were reportedly stored, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced on Tuesday.
The strikes, he stated, were carried out to ensure such strategic arms do not fall into the hands of extremist groups following the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Damascus.
“Our only interest is the security of Israel and its citizens,” Saar told reporters. “That’s why we targeted strategic weapon systems like chemical weapons stockpiles and long-range missiles, to prevent their misuse,” he added, emphasizing the limited and temporary nature of Israel’s presence in Syria.
Tensions Amid Regime Collapse
The Syrian civil war reached a dramatic turning point over the weekend as rebel forces toppled Assad’s government after nearly 14 years of conflict.
While this development has sparked cautious optimism for a more peaceful future, it has also raised fears of a security vacuum. The country remains fragmented among various armed factions, increasing the risk of advanced weapons falling into unpredictable hands.
An Associated Press journalist reported that airstrikes hit near the Mezzeh military airport southwest of Damascus on Monday, an area previously targeted in Israeli operations.
Although Saar did not specify when or where the strikes occurred, the timing aligns with escalating concerns about the proliferation of Syria’s weapons.
Syria agreed to dismantle its chemical weapons stockpiles in 2013 under international pressure following a devastating attack near Damascus that killed hundreds.
However, reports suggest that parts of these stockpiles were retained and potentially used in subsequent years, leading to widespread condemnation and sanctions.
Israel’s Continued Operations in Syria
In recent years, Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes in Syria, targeting military sites linked to Iran and Hezbollah, key allies of the Assad regime.
Israeli authorities rarely comment on individual operations, but they maintain that such actions are necessary to safeguard national security.
Foreign Minister Saar reiterated that Israel’s strikes were preemptive measures aimed at neutralizing immediate threats.
“We must act to prevent the emergence of new dangers on our borders,” he stated, signaling Israel’s broader strategy to mitigate risks from a destabilized Syria.
Hamas Negotiations in Gaza
Turning to domestic issues, Saar provided a brief update on Israel’s ongoing indirect negotiations with Hamas over hostages in Gaza. While he noted some optimism about a breakthrough, he cautioned that no agreements had yet been reached.
The discussions come as tensions remain high following weeks of cross-border violence, complicating efforts to achieve lasting stability in the region.
Saar’s comments underscored Israel’s dual focus on addressing both internal and external security challenges during a period of heightened regional instability.
Broader Implications
The fall of Assad’s regime marks a pivotal moment in the Syrian conflict but also leaves many questions unanswered about the country’s future.
For Israel, the developments have intensified the urgency of ensuring that advanced weaponry does not exacerbate existing threats.
As the situation unfolds, regional and international actors will likely monitor the aftermath closely, with Israel’s actions serving as a stark reminder of the complexities of Middle Eastern geopolitics.