Syria’s Hama airport struck by Israeli fighter jets
| Published April 3, 2025
Officials warn al-Sharaa regime Israel would continue to act to protect its security interests amid Turkish-backed military buildup; for second day in a row, rockets fired at Sderot from northern Gaza; both intercepted by air defenses
The Israeli Air Force conducted extensive airstrikes on multiple military targets in Syria, including sites near Damascus, the T4 airbase near Homs, and the military airport in Hama. These strikes targeted strategic infrastructure and weapon stockpiles associated with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s military, such as runways, fuel depots, and radar systems. Large explosions were reported, and the runway at Hama airport was reportedly destroyed. Israeli officials warned the Syrian regime that Israel would continue to act to protect its security interests amid a Turkish-backed military buildup in the region. Additionally, for the second consecutive day, rockets were fired from northern Gaza toward Sderot; both were intercepted by Israeli air defenses.
IMPLICATIONS
The Israeli airstrikes in Syria and the continued rocket fire from Gaza have several significant implications:
1. Regional Escalation
The strikes indicate Israel’s willingness to take preemptive action against military threats, particularly from Syria, which has been a conduit for Iranian influence.
If Syria or its allies retaliate, this could escalate tensions, potentially drawing in Iran, Hezbollah, and other regional actors.
2. Israel’s Security Strategy
By targeting key military infrastructure, Israel is reinforcing its policy of deterring threats before they materialize.
The strikes send a message to Syria, Iran, and their allies that Israel will not tolerate military buildups near its borders.
3. Syrian Response & Stability
Assad’s government may feel pressured to respond, especially if the damage is severe.
If Syria escalates tensions, it risks further instability at a time when it is still recovering from civil war.
4. Iran & Hezbollah’s Role
If the strikes targeted Iranian assets or proxies, Iran could increase its military presence in Syria or support retaliatory actions.
Hezbollah, already engaged in conflicts with Israel, might intensify its operations along the Lebanon-Israel border.
5. Gaza Situation
The continued rocket fire from Gaza suggests ongoing tensions with Palestinian factions.
Israel’s interception of the rockets may prevent immediate escalation but does not resolve the underlying conflict with Hamas and other militant groups.
6. Global Reactions
The U.S. and Western allies may support Israel’s right to self-defense but could also urge de-escalation to prevent wider conflict.
Russia, which has a presence in Syria, might react cautiously, especially if its assets or interests were affected.
OVERALL TAKEAWAY
Israel’s airstrikes in Syria and the ongoing rocket fire from Gaza highlight escalating regional tensions, with potential for broader conflict. The strikes reinforce Israel’s proactive defense strategy, signaling deterrence to Syria, Iran, and Hezbollah. However, they also risk provoking retaliation, further destabilizing an already volatile region. The situation underscores the persistent threats along Israel’s borders and the fragile balance of power in the Middle East.
SOURCES: YNET – Massive explosions reported in Syria strikes; airbase runway wiped out
REUTERS – Israel strikes Syria military bases, infrastructure; kills armed militants
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