Israel Strike Kills 2 in Damascus Neighborhood

An airstrike attributed to Israel targeted a residential district in Damascus, Syria, resulting in the deaths of at least two individuals, as reported by Syrian state media. This incident is part of a series of increased Israeli airstrikes in Syria following the outbreak of the Gaza conflict on October 7, prompted by an attack from Hamas.

Syrian state news agency SANA reported that the strike specifically hit a residential building in the Kfar Sousseh area, which is known to house high-ranking security and intelligence offices as well as an Iranian cultural center. The strike not only resulted in casualties but also inflicted material damage to the building and its vicinity.

The area targeted, Kfar Sousseh, is strategically significant due to its occupants, including senior security personnel and intelligence services. The attack caused substantial damage to a nine-story building, particularly affecting the fourth floor, as noted by an AFP photographer. Firefighting teams were dispatched to manage the ensuing fire.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an organization monitoring the war from Britain, reported a slightly higher death toll, including a Syrian civilian and two foreign nationals. They also noted subsequent Israeli strikes against positions of Iran-backed groups southwest of Damascus, which were audible in the capital.

Israel, while typically not commenting on specific operations, has stated its intention to prevent Iranian influence in Syria. Previous strikes have targeted key figures within Iran’s military infrastructure in Syria, including a notable strike in December that killed a senior Quds Force commander, marking a significant escalation in Israel’s efforts to counteract Iranian military presence in the region.