Mon Dec 09 21:28:16 UTC 2024: ## Israel Launches Airstrikes in Syria Amidst Civil Unrest
**DAMASCUS, SYRIA** – Israel carried out a series of airstrikes across Syria on Sunday, targeting military sites near Damascus and other locations in the south, according to multiple reports. This marks the first such action following the recent advances by rebels against President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitoring group, reported that Israeli warplanes struck a research center near Damascus, along with military depots near a military outpost in the capital’s countryside. The British-based monitor also stated that earlier in the day, strikes targeted the Mezzeh military airport area in Damascus and another unspecified location near the city. Further strikes were reported in Daraa and Quneitra provinces in southern Syria. No casualties have been reported thus far.
While Israeli authorities have not officially commented on the strikes, Israeli media outlets have offered various explanations. Some reports suggest the attacks targeted a chemical weapons facility, fueled by concerns that weapons developed under Assad’s rule could fall into rebel hands. These reports cited the Jerusalem Post and N12 Israeli television.
In a separate development, Israel has reportedly deployed additional troops along its border with Syria, with the IDF Telegram channel announcing the reinforcement of defenses along the Golan Heights and the border. This is the second such announcement in 24 hours, reflecting escalating concerns related to the ongoing Syrian civil conflict and rebel advances. The increased troop presence indicates a heightened state of readiness along the border region.
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