HOMS, Syria – The Israeli military launched airstrikes on two Syrian military bases in Homs province on Tuesday, escalating tensions in the region. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) identified the targeted sites as the “Tadmur and T4” bases, stating that they hosted “military capabilities.”
The latest strikes come days after Israeli forces carried out attacks in the southwestern city of Daraa, which resulted in at least three deaths and 19 injuries, according to the Syrian Civil Defence group, also known as the White Helmets.
The IDF confirmed the strikes in Daraa, claiming they targeted military headquarters and sites containing weapons and equipment.
Targets in Homs Province
The Israeli military did not provide specific details about the nature of the “military capabilities” present at the Tadmur and T4 bases.
However, T4, also known as the Tiyas Military Airbase, has been a strategic location in past conflicts, frequently used by Syrian forces and their allies, including Iranian-backed militias.
Israel has repeatedly expressed concern over the presence of Iran-backed groups in Syria, particularly the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The IDF has conducted numerous airstrikes in the past, aiming to disrupt what it describes as Iranian entrenchment in Syria.
Retaliatory Tensions Rise
Syrian state media has yet to confirm the latest strikes in Homs, but previous Israeli attacks have prompted responses from Syria’s air defense systems. It remains unclear whether Syrian forces attempted to intercept the latest round of strikes.
The attack on Daraa last week also heightened tensions. The White Helmets reported that among the casualties were civilians, while the IDF insisted it had targeted military installations. The Syrian government has frequently condemned Israeli strikes as violations of its sovereignty, often calling on international organizations to take action.
Regional Impact and Reactions
Israel has not officially commented on whether the strikes in Homs were part of a broader military campaign. However, military analysts suggest that such operations are aimed at preventing Syria from becoming a launchpad for attacks against Israel.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Syria has been a key component of the broader geopolitical struggle in the region, particularly involving Iran. Israel has consistently stated that it will not allow Iran to establish a military foothold in Syria and has launched hundreds of airstrikes in recent years to counter such efforts.
The Syrian government has previously turned to its allies, including Russia and Iran, for military support. Meanwhile, Israel has maintained strong defense ties with the United States, which has also voiced concerns over Iranian influence in Syria.
Escalating Conflict in 2024?
The latest Israeli airstrikes indicate that military tensions in Syria are unlikely to subside soon. With ongoing hostilities in various parts of the region, including the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, military analysts warn that further escalations could destabilize the region.
While Israel has not officially acknowledged all of its past operations in Syria, it maintains that it will continue to take preemptive action against perceived security threats. Syrian officials, on the other hand, have repeatedly vowed to resist what they call Israeli aggression.
As both sides remain entrenched in their positions, the cycle of strikes and countermeasures appears set to continue into the new year.