Tue Apr 08 07:44:01 UTC 2025: ## Israel’s Escalating Attacks on Syria Spark Regional Tensions

**DAMASCUS/JERUSALEM** – Israel’s recent military incursions into Syria have ignited regional tensions, prompting condemnation from Damascus and its allies. Multiple Israeli airstrikes have targeted Syrian airbases, including the Hama and T4 airbases, causing significant damage and casualties. Nine civilians were also reportedly killed in shelling near Nawa in southern Syria.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz defended the attacks, issuing veiled threats against Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa (using his nom de guerre “Jolani”), warning of severe consequences if Syria allows “hostile forces” to threaten Israeli interests. The Israeli government, referring to the current Syrian government as a terrorist group, claims the attacks are necessary to secure its borders and prevent the purported encroachment of “hostile forces,” particularly those affiliated with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).

Israel has also expanded its occupation into Syrian territory beyond the Golan Heights, seizing control of vital water resources. The Israeli army has even promoted “hiking tours” through the occupied Syrian land, a move criticized as provocative.

Turkey, a key supporter of the Syrian opposition, strongly condemned the Israeli actions, demanding a complete withdrawal from occupied Syrian territories. The Turkish foreign ministry asserted that lasting regional security requires an end to Israel’s expansionist policies.

The Syrian government, meanwhile, has repeatedly denounced the attacks as violations of its sovereignty. Syrian writer Robin Yassin Kassab highlights the vulnerability of the Syrian population, forced to defend itself against Israeli aggression with limited resources. He also points to the Israeli government’s strategy of framing local resistance as HTS-affiliated to justify its attacks.

Israel’s actions have also raised concerns about its strategic goals, with reports suggesting attempts to counter Turkish influence in Syria and secure continued Russian presence in the country, despite reported surprise from US officials at this strategy.

The escalating situation underscores the fragility of the region and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play, with limited international action to curb Israel’s actions. The ongoing conflict continues to inflict suffering on the Syrian people and threatens further regional instability.

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