Israeli Airstrike Hits Western Syria, Civilian Reported Dead

An Israeli airstrike targeted western Syria late Friday, marking the first such operation in nearly a month. The strike focused on areas near the village of Zama in the Jableh countryside, south of Latakia, resulting in the reported death of one civilian. This action occurred amidst ongoing indirect talks between Israel and Syria aimed at reducing tensions.

The Israeli military stated that the operation targeted weapon storage facilities containing coastal missiles, which were perceived as threats to international and Israeli maritime navigation. Additionally, components of surface-to-air missiles were struck. The Israeli Defense Forces emphasized their commitment to maintaining freedom of action in the region to carry out missions and address any threats to the state and its citizens.

Syrian state media reported that the airstrike resulted in the death of a civilian near Zama. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that jets, likely Israeli, struck military sites on the outskirts of Tartus and Latakia. These areas have been previously targeted due to their strategic significance and the presence of military installations.

Diplomatic Context and Ongoing Tensions

The airstrike comes after Syria announced earlier this month that it was engaged in indirect talks with Israel to calm tensions. These discussions, facilitated by international mediators, aim to establish a non-aggression agreement between the two countries, which have been technically at war since 1948. The United States has supported these efforts, advocating for dialogue to prevent further escalation.

Despite these diplomatic initiatives, Israel has continued to conduct airstrikes in Syria, citing the need to prevent advanced weapons from reaching hostile entities. The Israeli government maintains that such actions are necessary to safeguard national security interests. Conversely, Syria views these strikes as violations of its sovereignty and has condemned them accordingly.