Israel-Syria Tensions Escalate Over Air Base Attack

Damascus, Syria — In a move that has intensified regional tensions, Israel targeted an air base in northwest Syria early Tuesday. The strike was intended to prevent Turkish forces from setting up operations there. Turkey, a close ally of the Syrian government, has provided military support, leading to friction with Israel. The two countries are vying to limit each other’s sway in Syria.

According to Syrian state television, eight strikes hit the Abu Duhur air base’s runway in Idlib province, causing damage but resulting in no casualties. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shibani criticized the attack, labeling it a “violation of Syria’s sovereignty” and a threat to stability.

The Israeli government, through Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, stated that the attack was a response to Syria’s actions, which it claims could upset agreed security protocols by allowing Turkish troop presence. Israel claimed it had warned Syria about such deployments being a security concern, but Syria allegedly disregarded these warnings.

Turkey’s Foreign Ministry condemned the Israeli actions, urging the international community to step up and address Israel’s “escalating aggression.” The incident underscores the delicate geopolitical dynamics in the region.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, based in Britain, reported that foreign fighters previously used the air base but had vacated recently. The Observatory noted Turkey’s involvement in refurbishing the base, inactive for years throughout the conflict that resulted in significant casualties.

Tom Barrack, the United States ambassador to Turkey and special envoy to Syria, expressed Washington’s concerns over the Israeli airstrikes, describing them as an unwanted escalation. Barrack stated that the leadership of Syria’s Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa favors de-escalation with Israel.

Regional powers like Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia also decried the airstrikes, emphasizing the need for stability.

Since the downfall of Bashar Assad in December 2024 following insurgent advances, Israel has increased its aerial operations in Syria to prevent military resources from falling into the hands of Assad’s successors. Israeli forces have taken control of a buffer zone in southern Syria, monitored by the U.N.

Last year, Israeli drones targeted a Damascus suburb, resulting in military casualties. Although the new Damascus authorities wish to avoid hostilities with Israel, Israel continues to express caution regarding the new government. Ongoing U.S.-led negotiations aiming to establish a security agreement between Israel and Syria have yet to yield a resolution.