Israeli Airstrikes in Syria Kill 7, Including Civilians

Late Sunday, Israeli airstrikes in central Syria resulted in the deaths of at least seven people, including three civilians, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The targeted area was near Masyaf, a region known for its scientific research centers and pro-Iranian groups.

The airstrikes, which occurred around 11:20 pm (2020 GMT), led to the deaths of a man and his son who were in a car, along with four unidentified soldiers. Additionally, at least 15 others were wounded, and several military facilities were destroyed. The strikes were reported to have caused thirteen violent explosions in the region.

The Syrian state news agency Sana initially reported five deaths and 19 injuries near Masyaf, based on medical sources. Sana also stated that the Israeli attacks originated from the northwest of Lebanon, targeting military sites in central Syria.

Since the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted numerous strikes in Syria, focusing on pro-Iranian factions and military infrastructure. The recent strikes align with this pattern, reflecting heightened tensions following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which escalated the conflict in Gaza.

The Israeli government rarely comments on specific strikes but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran’s expanding influence in Syria. Recent Israeli actions have included attacks on pro-Iranian fighters and affiliates, with a notable incident in August where three pro-Iranian fighters were killed in Homs.

The ongoing conflict and strikes underscore the complex and volatile nature of the situation in Syria, with various international actors involved and frequent escalations.