Israel Continues Bombing Syria, Including Damascus
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have launched new airstrikes on Syrian territory, targeting locations in and around Damascus. With Bashar al-Assad no longer in power and Syrian rebels now leading the country with stated intentions to build better relations with Israel, a question arises: who is the IDF bombing?
Why Do the Strikes Continue?
Despite Assad’s fall, Israel asserts that its military operations are aimed at Iranian-backed forces and infrastructure within Syria. The region remains a critical transit point for arms deliveries to Hezbollah in Lebanon and other pro-Iranian groups, which Israel considers existential threats.
Though Syria’s new leadership has distanced itself from Iran and expressed openness to dialogue with Israel, the IDF remains wary of lingering radical factions and the continued presence of Iranian influence in the region.
Bombing Damascus: Strategic Targets or Symbolic Moves?
Airstrikes on Damascus carry both strategic and symbolic significance. The city, long associated with centralized power, remains a key hub for various military and logistical operations. However, new Syrian authorities claim they are focused on peace-building and breaking away from Assad-era conflicts.
Despite these claims, Israel and other international powers remain skeptical, as the transition of power in Syria is far from complete, and radical elements within the rebel factions pose potential risks.
What Does Israel Want?
Israel’s primary objective remains the elimination of Iranian military assets and the prevention of weapons transfers to groups like Hezbollah. IDF operations aim to maintain security along Israel’s northern border and disrupt any attempts by Iran to entrench itself militarily in Syria.
For now, the Israeli government appears to adopt a cautious stance towards the new Syrian leadership, awaiting clearer policy commitments and evidence of a shift away from pro-Iranian alliances.
Prospects for Peace
The situation is complex:
- Syria’s new regime seeks to mend ties with regional neighbors, but Israel’s mistrust persists.
- Stability in the region depends on reducing Iranian influence and fostering trust between Syria and Israel.
Whether Syria’s new leaders can deliver on promises of peace and cooperation remains to be seen.
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