In a series of escalating military actions, Israeli airstrikes have targeted the Syrian capital of Damascus, resulting in significant casualties and damage. On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, an Israeli air strike killed three people in Damascus, marking the second such strike in as many days.
According to the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the latest strike targeted a residential building in the Mazzeh neighbourhood, an area known for its security headquarters and embassies, as well as the presence of Hezbollah leaders and the Iranian Revolutionary Guards. The strike killed at least three people, including two foreigners, and wounded three others.
Previous Strikes and Casualties
The recent airstrikes are part of a broader pattern of Israeli military actions in Syria. On Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Israeli strikes in Damascus and its vicinity resulted in the deaths of six people, including three civilians and three pro-Iran fighters. Among the civilian fatalities was Safaa Ahmad, a television anchor for Syrian state television, who was described as 'martyred' in the Israeli aggression.
The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that the Tuesday strikes targeted two vehicles in the Mazzeh district, as well as air defence batteries at the city's airport and the vicinity of the Kisweh area. These strikes left nine people wounded in addition to the three civilian fatalities.
Context and Broader Implications
Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria since the country's civil war began in 2011, primarily targeting Syrian army positions and Iran-backed fighters, including those from Hezbollah. Israeli authorities have consistently stated their intention to prevent Iran from expanding its presence in Syria.
The recent escalation in strikes coincides with increased military activities by Israel in Lebanon, where Israeli assaults have resulted in significant casualties. The conflict has raised concerns about the potential for a wider regional war, prompting calls for a ceasefire from international leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated Israel's commitment to continuing its military campaign against Hezbollah, dismissing calls for a ceasefire and emphasizing the goal of ensuring the safe return of residents in northern Israel to their homes.
The ongoing conflict has led to a humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands of people crossing into Syria over the past week to escape heavy Israeli air strikes on Lebanon.
For more detailed information on the Syrian Civil War and its complexities, refer to historical records and ongoing analyses.
