Israel Bombards Syria Following Opposition Takeover
Israeli forces launched a massive assault across Syria, targeting three major airports—Qamishli in the north, Homs in central Syria, and Mezzeh in Damascus—along with strategic military infrastructure. This offensive, described as “one of the largest attack operations in the history of its air force,” coincided with the removal of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and the transfer of power to the opposition-led Salvation Government, headed by Mohammed al-Bashir. Israeli strikes reportedly destroyed dozens of fighter jets, helicopters, ammunition depots, and chemical weapon facilities to prevent these assets from falling into opposition hands.
Opposition-Led Government Takes Control in Damascus
As the new Salvation Government assumed power in Damascus, Assad’s former prime minister confirmed the transition. Meanwhile, the region grappled with a humanitarian revelation: the body of Syrian activist Mazen al-Hamada was discovered at Sednaya prison, notorious for torture and disappearances. Rescue teams concluded their search for missing detainees, amplifying calls for justice and accountability.
Regional Condemnation of Israel’s Actions
Qatar, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia denounced Israel’s airstrikes and its ongoing territorial claims in the Syrian Golan Heights. UN peacekeepers also accused Israel of breaching the 1974 ceasefire agreement that concluded the 1967 war. As the international community reacted, Israel defended its operations, asserting they were necessary to neutralize threats to its security and prevent military assets from empowering the opposition.
This sequence of events marks a turning point in the Syrian conflict, underscoring regional instability and escalating geopolitical tensions.
