Israeli Strikes Target Military Sites in Syria; 14 Reported Killed

New Delhi: In a series of Israeli airstrikes on military installations in central Syria, at least 14 people lost their lives. The attacks occurred near Masyaf in Hama province, according to reports from the Syrian state news agency.

Widespread Damage and Casualties
The airstrikes resulted in significant damage to military and scientific facilities. A UK-based monitoring group indicated that at least four soldiers and three civilians were among the deceased. In addition, the Syrian state news agency noted that 43 individuals were wounded, with local highways and surrounding areas also sustaining damage.

Background of Increased Tensions
The recent escalation in Israeli airstrikes has been linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which intensified following cross-border attacks on northern Israel. Although the Israeli military has not commented on these specific strikes, it has acknowledged conducting numerous operations in Syria over the years, particularly targeting locations associated with Iran-backed groups.

Syrian Response and Aftermath
Syrian military sources reported that some of the missiles were intercepted by air defences, though others struck their targets. The incident also sparked a fire in the Hair Abbas area, further contributing to the devastation caused by the strikes.

Monitoring and Observations
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the conflict, reported a series of powerful explosions in the Masyaf region. These explosions occurred in areas where pro-Iranian groups and weapons experts were reportedly present, adding to the complexity of the situation on the ground.