Syrian Ministry Warns of Severe Consequences Following Israeli Airstrikes in Damascus
Syrian Foreign Ministry Cautions Against Continued Israeli Attacks, Cites International Law and Regional Stability.
Israeli Strikes on Damascus Result in Military Casualties and Infrastructure Damage Amidst Escalating Tensions
Damascus, Syria – The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates cautioned on Sunday that ongoing Israeli attacks on Syrian soil could lead to uncontrollable consequences and serious repercussions. This warning was issued hours after Israeli missile attacks targeted a residential neighborhood and military sites in Damascus, resulting in casualties among Syrian military personnel and causing fires in the affected areas.
Statement from the Syrian Ministry
In a statement, the ministry reaffirmed Syria’s legitimate right to defend its sovereignty and liberate its occupied land through all legitimate means guaranteed by international law. The ministry also warned against the escalation of Israeli attacks, emphasizing that the persistent international silence regarding these actions undermines the ability of the international system to confront violations of its charter and international laws.
Details of the Attack
The Syrian Ministry of Defense reported that the Israeli strikes resulted in the death of one military personnel and injured three others. The attacks, launched from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan Heights, targeted several military sites in the southern region and a residential building in the Kafr Sousa area of Damascus. The Syrian air defense systems responded to the incoming missiles, successfully intercepting a considerable number of them.
Background of Israeli Strikes
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that their strikes were a response to the launch of two drones from Syria towards Eilat, which were intercepted. This incident marks the second time within a few days that Israel has struck Syrian targets, amid heightened tensions in the region. The IDF reported targeting a central Syrian Army command center, additional infrastructure, and air defense systems in retaliation for the drone attack.
Context of the Conflict
For years, Israel has conducted strikes against what it describes as Iran-linked targets in Syria, as Tehran’s influence has grown since it began supporting President Bashar al-Assad in the civil war that started in 2011. Israeli strikes on Syria have increased since the onset of the war in Gaza last October, following a devastating cross-border attack by Hamas that killed 1,200 people in Israel. In response, Israel launched a military offensive in Gaza to neutralize Hamas and free hostages taken during the attack.
Escalation and International Response
The continuous attacks and counter-attacks have significantly heightened tensions in the region. The Syrian government has consistently condemned Israeli actions and called for international intervention to halt the strikes. The international community’s response has been varied, with some countries condemning the attacks and others calling for restraint from both sides.
As the situation remains volatile, further developments are awaited. The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has urged the international community to take a stand against the repeated violations of Syria’s sovereignty, warning of the potential for broader regional instability if the attacks continue.
Ongoing Investigation
Further investigations into the attacks and their implications are ongoing. The Syrian government continues to call for accountability and support in defending its territorial integrity against what it perceives as aggressive actions by Israel.
