Israeli drone strikes near Damascus have killed six Syrian soldiers, Syria's government reported, marking a concerning escalation in military activity this week. The Syrian Foreign Ministry has condemned the attacks as a breach of sovereignty and violation of international laws.
After a series of airstrikes, Israeli forces reportedly executed an airborne landing at a former military site in the area, according to both international and Syrian state media, although details surrounding this operation remain unclear.
Israel's military declined to comment on the foreign reports, while Defence Minister Israel Katz emphasized on social media that forces are operating in all combat zones day and night for the security of Israel.
Since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad's government in December, Israel has conducted numerous attacks across Syria, citing the necessity of preventing arms from reaching extremist groups. This year alone, Israeli forces have launched 95 attacks, including both airstrikes and ground operations, as documented by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.
Tuesday's lethal strike occurred while Syrian troops were attempting to investigate surveillance equipment found near al-Kiswah. Subsequent airstrikes were reported near the Damascus International Fair, where Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa was present.
The recent operations come amidst ongoing deconfliction talks between Israel and Syria, highlighting the fragile and tense relations between the two countries. Historically, Israel has targeted Syrian forces to prevent potential threats against its national security, particularly amidst the complex sectarian landscape surrounding the Druze population in both nations.
Israeli Prime Minister previously justified strikes on Syrian government forces as necessary actions to safeguard Israel's security in light of sectarian violence in the region.”
