The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Tuesday that it carried out approximately 480 airstrikes across Syria in the past 48 hours, targeting key military assets. This escalation follows the recent removal of President Bashar al-Assad from power, marking a significant shift in the region’s geopolitical landscape.
“Over the last 48 hours, the IDF struck most of Syria’s strategic weapons stockpiles to prevent them from falling into the hands of terrorist groups,” the military said in a statement.
Details of the Offensive
The strikes targeted major cities including Damascus, Homs, Tartus, Latakia, and Palmyra, focusing on military installations, weapons production sites, and anti-aircraft systems. The IDF reported that:
- 350 strikes involved manned aircraft targeting assets such as airfields, drones, missiles, tanks, and fighter jets.
- Naval operations destroyed 15 Syrian naval vessels and stockpiles of sea-to-sea missiles.
- Ground support strikes hit weapons depots, rocket launchers, and firing positions.
Geopolitical Implications
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed Assad’s removal as a pivotal moment. Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu stated, “The collapse of the Syrian regime is a direct result of the decisive blows we have delivered to Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. This marks a transformation in the Middle East.”
Despite celebrating Assad’s ouster, Israeli officials voiced concerns about the uncertain future of Syria. The potential rise of radical Islamist factions in the power vacuum remains a pressing concern.
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar underscored the urgency of the strikes, particularly those targeting facilities housing chemical weapons and long-range missiles. “These operations are vital to ensuring these weapons do not fall into the hands of extremists,” he emphasized.
Regional Outlook
The situation in Syria has introduced new challenges for regional stability. While Israel seeks to neutralize immediate threats, the long-term implications of Assad’s removal and the resulting power struggle remain uncertain.
