Israel intensified airstrikes on Iran-linked targets in Syria

Israel has significantly intensified its airstrikes on Iranian-linked targets in Syria, resulting in civilian casualties on at least three occasions, according to an independent United Nations commission. The report, released on September 10, 2024, highlights the escalating conflict in the region, particularly since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war nearly a year ago

Overview of Recent Airstrikes

Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Israel has conducted dozens of airstrikes across various regions in Syria. The UN commission's findings indicate that these strikes have not only targeted military installations but have also led to tragic civilian casualties. The report specifically notes that the airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of civilians, raising concerns about the humanitarian implications of such military actions

One of the most notable incidents occurred in April when an Israeli airstrike targeted Iranian consular offices in Damascus, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals, including two Iranian generals. This attack prompted a retaliatory response from Tehran, which launched an unprecedented attack against Israel just two weeks later. The cycle of violence has continued to escalate, with both sides engaging in military operations that threaten to destabilize the region further

The Context of the Israel-Hamas War

The Israel-Hamas war, which erupted on October 7, 2023, following a surprise attack by Hamas on Israeli civilians and soldiers, has significantly altered the dynamics of the region. In the wake of the conflict, Israel has ramped up its military operations against Iranian-aligned groups in Syria, viewing their presence as a direct threat to its national security. The Israeli government has consistently stated its commitment to preventing Iranian entrenchment in Syria, where thousands of Iran-backed fighters are deployed

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a monitoring organization, reported that since the onset of the conflict, Israel has conducted 76 airstrikes across Syria. These operations have resulted in the deaths of 287 Iranian-linked fighters and Syrian troops, along with 27 civilians, including two children. The high number of casualties has drawn international attention and condemnation, prompting calls for accountability and restraint

Humanitarian Crisis in Syria

The ongoing conflict has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation in Syria. The UN commission has warned that the country is facing an alarming humanitarian crisis, with 13 million Syrians experiencing acute food insecurity. The situation has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Sudan, which have diverted international attention and resources away from Syria

The commission noted that only a quarter of this year’s humanitarian needs have been funded, leading to a deepening crisis that threatens to spiral out of control. Over 650,000 children in Syria are showing signs of stunting due to severe malnutrition, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance

Regional Tensions and Responses

The recent airstrikes and the ongoing conflict have heightened tensions not only between Israel and Iran but also among various regional actors. Iran has vowed to retaliate for the killing of top Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, which is believed to have been carried out by Israel. The cycle of violence continues to escalate, with both sides preparing for potential confrontations

The international community has expressed concern over the situation, urging both Israel and Iran to exercise restraint and prioritize diplomatic solutions to de-escalate tensions. However, the complex geopolitical landscape, characterized by competing interests and alliances, complicates efforts to achieve lasting peace.