Israel conducted a series of airstrikes early Saturday targeting key military sites in Damascus and its countryside, marking the latest escalation since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime last week, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
The strikes reportedly destroyed a scientific institute in Barzeh, Scud missile warehouses, and launchers in Qalamun, as well as tunnels and depots under the mountain in the Damascus region.
The Observatory reported that Israel has intensified its bombardments, targeting the remnants of Syria’s military infrastructure, including chemical weapon storage sites and air defenses.
On Friday, Israeli strikes hit a missile base on Mount Qasyun, facilities in Hama’s Masyaf region, and an airport in Sweida province. International condemnation followed, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressing concern over violations of Syrian sovereignty.
Following Assad’s ousting on December 8, 2024, rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham seized control of Damascus. Hours later, Israel captured a UN-patrolled buffer zone in the Syrian Golan Heights, raising alarms among Arab and European leaders calling for a unified, inclusive transitional government to stabilize the country.
Meanwhile, violent clashes erupted in Lattakia’s countryside between supporters of the former regime and Al-Sham Legion members, leaving 15 casualties, including four fatalities. Tensions remain high in other regions, with reports of targeted killings in Aleppo, Tartous, and Hama provinces.
Amid the chaos, healthcare services in Syria are collapsing due to looting, lack of staff, and medicine shortages. The UN and its partners have resumed limited humanitarian activities, deploying mobile medical units and delivering aid in more secure areas. Refugee returns have also begun from Lebanon and Türkiye, despite the absence of immigration authorities on the Syrian side.
Turkey is preparing for the return of nearly 3 million Syrian refugees but warns of logistical challenges. Experts highlight the complexities of reintegrating displaced populations as Syria faces an uncertain future.
