Damascus: In a significant escalation of tensions, the Israeli army announced that 12 of its fighter jets conducted extensive airstrikes across Syria, targeting military infrastructure in a move condemned as a violation of Syrian sovereignty. The attacks, which took place overnight, have sparked outrage and concern over potential regional instability.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Israeli military indicated that the airstrikes were aimed at dismantling "anti-aircraft artillery and a surface-to-air missile platform" among other military assets. The army warned of continued operations, asserting the need to "eliminate any threat in the region." The strikes resulted in at least one fatality and left four individuals injured, raising alarm over the humanitarian impact of such military actions.

The Syrian state news agency, SANA, detailed the extent of the damage, reporting that Israeli warplanes targeted areas in the vicinity of Shatha village in Hama province, northwest Syria, injuring four people. Further reports from SANA indicated that a separate strike on the outskirts of Harasta in the Damascus countryside province resulted in one death. Additional airstrikes reportedly hit locations near Muthabin and Izraa in the southern Daraa province.

The timing of these attacks is particularly contentious, coming soon after Israeli planes targeted an area near the presidential palace in Damascus. Israeli officials suggested that these strikes were intended as a message against the presence of armed groups near southern Damascus and to address potential threats to the Druze community.

Observers note that the timing and target selection of the strikes appear designed to fuel sectarian tensions, especially within the Druze community, potentially as a pretext for further intervention. This has occurred despite repeated affirmations from Damascus that all religious and ethnic groups in Syria are assured equal rights and representation, a stance reiterated by prominent Druze leaders who recently emphasized their commitment to Syria's unity.

The international community has expressed concern over the continued hostilities, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation in the already volatile region.