Israel conducts large-scale military operations in Syria and seizes Golan Heights positions

Israel has launched a significant military operation in Syria, targeting over 250 locations and seizing military posts in the Golan Heights.

The offensive follows the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime to rebel forces, marking a significant escalation in the region. The Israeli military’s actions drew condemnation from Arab nations and the United Nations, which cited violations of international law and warned of potential destabilisation in Syria.

An unnamed Israeli security source described the campaign as “one of the largest attack operations in the history of [Israel’s] air force.”

According to the source, targets included Syrian military bases, fighter jets, surface-to-air missile systems, and production facilities. Strategic installations, such as ammunition depots and sites purportedly linked to chemical weapons production, were also struck. The Israeli government has stated its primary objective is to prevent rebel factions from seizing advanced weaponry.

On the ground, Israeli forces crossed into the Golan Heights for the first time since 1974, capturing military posts previously abandoned by Syrian troops. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the incursion as a “temporary defensive position,” though he avoided the term “temporary” in his Hebrew-language statement. Troops were observed mobilising in the area, with increased activity reported near Druze villages along the border.

Rebels supporters r not talking about 350+ strikes in #Syria and Israel movement towards Damascus. If you can’t protect your land from occupation how u r free. If HTS is sincere, they should take help from Iran (the only nation in ME that can armed them against Israel). pic.twitter.com/8FQKXsUIic

— (سيد علي) Syed Ali (@Thinker_110) December 10, 2024

Regional and international responses

Arab nations swiftly condemned the incursions. Many characterised Israel’s actions as an illegal occupation aimed at expanding territorial control in Syria. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) issued a statement criticising the United States for continuing to arm Netanyahu’s government, accusing Israel of exploiting international silence to escalate aggression in the region.

The United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF), which monitors the buffer zone between Israeli and Syrian forces, cautioned Israel against violating the 1974 disengagement agreement.

UNDOF spokesperson Stephane Dujarric noted that the buffer zone remained calm but emphasised that military actions in the area contravened international agreements. The UN Security Council is expected to convene for consultations on the matter, following a Russian request for a special session.

Implications for Syria and the region

Syria’s stability has been in question since the removal of Assad, with rebel factions struggling to restore civic order. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), the Islamist group leading the rebel coalition, has not commented on the Israeli actions. Analysts warn that the strikes and ground operations could exacerbate tensions among Syria’s fragmented opposition groups and embolden extremist factions.

Israel’s military strategy appears focused on neutralising potential threats from weapons stockpiles that could fall into rebel hands. The operation has raised concerns about a broader escalation, as Israeli forces have targeted key infrastructure, including airports in Qamishili, Homs, and Damascus. Local reports suggest that dozens of helicopters and aircraft were destroyed in the strikes.

The international community faces a precarious balancing act as it responds to Israel’s actions. While some nations may view the operation as a defensive measure, others see it as a blatant breach of international law. The incident underscores the fragile nature of post-Assad Syria, where multiple stakeholders are vying for influence.

The developments in Syria and the Golan Heights will likely dominate upcoming diplomatic discussions, with countries like Russia and Iran—long-time allies of Assad—expected to push for stronger international condemnation of Israel. Meanwhile, the situation poses a test for Western governments, particularly the United States, as they navigate their alliances amid rising tensions.

As the situation evolves, the region remains on edge, with observers warning that further escalation could lead to widespread instability and prolonged conflict.