Official announcements from the Israeli government and credible news sources

Israel Strikes Damascus, Destroys 70-80% of Syria's Military Assets

Dec 12, 2024, 12:07 PM

Following the collapse of the Assad regime in Syria, Israel has intensified military operations across the country, conducting over 480 airstrikes in recent days. These strikes have targeted key military assets, including naval vessels, missile facilities, and weapons production sites in Latakia, Tartus, and Damascus. The Israeli military has also deployed ground troops into and beyond the demilitarized buffer zone on the Golan Heights for the first time in 50 years. The strikes have reportedly destroyed 70-80% of Syria's strategic military assets, including 15 naval ships and chemical weapons stockpiles. Explosions were reported in Damascus, with a second airstrike targeting the city. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the operations as part of a broader effort to reshape the Middle East, citing concerns about extremist groups exploiting the power vacuum. The United Nations has criticized these actions, stating they violate international law and agreements regarding the buffer zone established in 1974. UN Special Rapporteurs have called the actions lawless and part of a pattern of regional aggression. International reactions have been mixed, with some Arab states accusing Israel of exploiting Syria's instability to expand its territorial control.