Damascus was shaken by powerful explosions overnight as Syrian air defence systems scrambled to intercept what officials are calling an Israeli missile attack on key military installations.
The Syrian Ministry of Defence confirmed that their forces engaged incoming "hostile targets" in the skies above the capital, with air defence units successfully destroying several missiles. While the ministry reported only material damage, the intensity of the blasts suggests a significant escalation in the ongoing shadow war between Israel and Iranian-backed forces in Syria.
Coastal City Targeted
According to local sources, the attack wasn't limited to Damascus. Multiple reports indicate simultaneous strikes near the coastal city of Baniyas, where several military sites are located. The coastal region has become increasingly significant as Iran attempts to establish permanent military infrastructure along Syria's Mediterranean coastline.
Eyewitnesses in Damascus described the terrifying moments as anti-aircraft fire lit up the night sky. "The explosions were massive, shaking buildings across the city," one resident told local media, requesting anonymity for security reasons.
Long-Running Conflict Escalates
This latest incident represents another chapter in Israel's ongoing campaign to prevent Iranian entrenchment in Syria. While Israeli officials typically maintain their customary silence on operations in Syrian territory, their government has repeatedly stated it will not tolerate Iranian military presence near its borders.
The timing of this strike is particularly significant, coming during increased regional tensions and ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilise Syria after years of civil war.
Regional Implications
Military analysts suggest this attack signals Israel's continued determination to enforce its red lines in Syria, despite changing political dynamics in the region. The precision and scope of the operation indicate sophisticated intelligence gathering and coordination.
As dawn broke over Damascus, assessment teams were surveying the damage while Syrian state media emphasised the effectiveness of their air defence response. However, the full extent of the damage to targeted facilities remains unclear.
