‘Israeli’ airstrikes hit Syrian defense ministry in Damascus, injuries reported

Multiple injuries have been reported following a series of airstrikes that struck a building belonging to Syria’s Ministry of Defense in the capital city of Damascus. Syrian state media and regional sources have attributed the attack to Israel, marking another escalation in the already tense relationship between the two nations.

The strikes reportedly targeted a facility in the Kafr Sousa neighborhood, a heavily fortified area of Damascus known for housing military installations, intelligence offices, and diplomatic buildings. The building hit was linked to Syria’s Ministry of Defense, and early reports indicate that several individuals were injured, though the extent and severity of the injuries remain unclear.

Loud explosions were heard across the city in the early morning hours, shaking nearby buildings and prompting panic among residents. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and footage circulating online showed smoke rising from the targeted area, along with ambulances and fire trucks moving through the streets.

According to Syrian military officials, the airstrikes were carried out by Israeli warplanes that entered from the direction of the Golan Heights. Syrian air defense systems were reportedly activated and attempted to intercept the incoming missiles, but some managed to reach their targets.

The Israeli military has not commented on the incident, in line with its policy of not publicly acknowledging specific operations in Syria. However, Israel has conducted hundreds of strikes in Syria over the past decade, mostly targeting Iranian-backed forces, Hezbollah operatives, and weapons shipments intended for militias.

Analysts suggest the latest strike may have been aimed at disrupting Iranian military activity or command centers operating within Syrian military structures. Some reports suggest that senior military officials or advisors may have been present at the site during the attack, though this has not been confirmed.

The Syrian government has condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of international law and sovereignty. In a statement, officials vowed retaliation and said that the aggression would not go unanswered. Russia and Iran, both key allies of the Syrian regime, also criticized the attack, with Moscow urging restraint and warning of the potential for broader conflict in the region.

Residents of Damascus expressed fear and anger following the incident. Many have grown accustomed to periodic airstrikes but noted that this strike felt particularly intense and targeted a central area of the city.

The situation remains fluid, and officials are continuing to assess the damage and casualties. Medical teams have been deployed to assist the injured, and security forces have cordoned off the affected area as investigators examine the scene.

This latest strike adds to growing regional tensions, with ongoing clashes between Israel and Iranian-backed forces in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria. Observers warn that further escalations could lead to wider confrontations if diplomatic channels are not reengaged.

For now, Damascus remains on high alert as authorities brace for potential follow-up attacks or retaliatory action. The international community has called for calm and urged all parties to avoid steps that could provoke further instability in an already volatile region.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *