Israeli aircraft carried out a series of airstrikes targeting the Syrian coast early yesterday. The Syrian state news agency (SANA) reported that “the occupation aircraft targeted three sites in the countryside of Latakia and Tartus provinces.” It clarified that the Israeli strikes affected the area around the villages of Zama and Burj Islam, resulting in the death of one civilian and injuries to three others in Zama, while also striking near the port of Tartus. Furthermore, the strikes caused significant damage to the targeted sites.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that these strikes aimed at “military locations” and barracks in the Tartus and Latakia areas, but did not report any casualties.
Israel stated that these strikes were intended to “neutralize threats to maritime navigation and national security,” according to a declaration from the Israeli army. The statement added that the strikes targeted weapons storage facilities containing missiles in Latakia, which are viewed as a threat to maritime freedom. It further mentioned that “components for surface-to-air missiles in Latakia” were also targeted.
Despite Ongoing Negotiations
These airstrikes are the first on Syria in nearly a month and occur following Syria’s announcement earlier this month regarding indirect negotiations with Israel, which Israel referred to as “direct” talks.
Damascus, through its Minister of Information Hamza Mustafa, announced on Friday night that there are indirect negotiations with Israel focusing on implementing the 1974 separation of forces agreement. These statements have raised questions about the nature of future relations, particularly amid escalating security tensions.
The Syrian minister explained that the negotiations are being conducted via international intermediaries and aim to restore adherence to the agreement that restricts military movements on both sides of the Golan Heights. However, observers believe that this official announcement indicates a shift in Syrian rhetoric and suggests a degree of willingness to engage with Israel within a broader political context, potentially involving a de-escalation on the southern front.