
On September 8, Israeli air strikes targeted central Syria, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and 43 injuries, according to Syrian state news agency SANA. The strikes, which occurred at approximately 23:20 local time (20:20 GMT), involved Israeli warplanes flying over north-western Lebanon and launching missiles at several military sites in Syria’s central region.
SANA reported that the attacks caused significant material damage and sparked a fire near the city of Masyaf in Hama province. Syrian military sources described the strikes as “an air aggression by the Israeli enemy” and confirmed that their air defence systems intercepted some of the incoming missiles.
In response to the strikes, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani condemned the attacks, calling them “criminal” and urging Israel’s supporters to halt their backing and arms supply. Kanani’s remarks reflect Tehran’s strong opposition to Israel’s military actions in Syria.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitoring group, reported 13 violent explosions in the area housing scientific research centres in Masyaf, where pro-Iranian groups and weapons development experts are allegedly present. However, the SOHR, which is operated by a single individual, has faced criticism for alleged inaccuracies in its reporting.
Israel has not immediately commented on the latest strikes, a typical stance as the country often refrains from publicly discussing its intermittent attacks on Syria. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has previously stated that their operations target Iranian and pro-Iranian military personnel in Syria, an assertion that Tehran disputes.
The situation underscores the ongoing tension and conflict in the region, with Israel and Syria continuing to engage in a complex and contentious military dynamic.