LeadStory

Why did Israel attack Syria?

Asked 6 days ago

Answer

Israel attacked Syria primarily to target members of the militant group Jamaa Islamiyah, citing security concerns and the need to apprehend militants. The operation reflects Israel's increased military activity in Syria following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad and its deep suspicion of Syria's new government. Israeli strikes have also aimed to cripple Syria's air defenses, which are viewed as a major threat to Israel's security.

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Reuters

Israel launches deadly raid on southern Syria, Syrian media reports

Reuters · Older
Reuters
Reuters
Older
  • Israeli raid in Beit Jinn leaves multiple Syrians injured and killed 4s
  • Israel says raid targeted Jamaa Islamiyah militants after being fired upon 19s
  • Syrian agency SANA reports dozens wounded, violent clashes with residents 31s
  • Israeli troops move past 1974 buffer zone into southern Syria, including Mount Hermon 1m 14s
  • Israel voices suspicion of new Syrian government, calls for demilitarized south 1m 26s

References

Israel launches deadly raid on southern Syria, Syrian media reports
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Reuters
6 days ago
Israel launches deadly raid on southern Syria, Syrian media reports

Israel's military states the raid was a routine operation to apprehend Jamaa Islamiyah militants. Israeli forces were fired upon during the operation, leading to violent clashes.

Israel launches deadly raid on southern Syria, Syrian media reports
Icon
Reuters
6 days ago
Israel launches deadly raid on southern Syria, Syrian media reports

Israel increased military operations in Syria after Assad's ouster, expressing deep suspicion of the new government and calling for a demilitarized southern region.

Inside Syria’s crippled air defences after Israeli strikes
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Al Jazeera
8 days ago
Inside Syria’s crippled air defences after Israeli strikes

Israeli incursions and targeting of Syrian military hardware are viewed as the biggest threat to Syria's security and territorial integrity.

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