Israel has launched airstrikes on Syrian air defense bases in the south of the country, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. This action comes in the wake of a deadly rocket attack on the Druze Arab village of Majdal Shams in the occupied Golan Heights on July 27, which killed 12 children and teenagers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed a severe response to the attack, stating, “These children are our children… We will not let this pass”.While Israel and the United States have blamed the Lebanese Hezbollah movement for the attack, Hezbollah has denied any involvement. In response to the rising tensions, Hezbollah has notably reduced its military operations against Israel over the past two days.The international community, including Italy, France, and the United States, is urging restraint to prevent the situation from escalating into a wider regional conflict. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called on Israel not to fall into the “trap” of reprisal against Hezbollah, while Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib stated that diplomatic efforts are underway to contain the situation.However, the situation remains tense, with Israel considering further military action. Jonathan Schanzer, senior vice president of research at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, outlined three possible responses for Israel: maintaining the status quo, responding with overwhelming force, or declaring a full-out war against Hezbollah. Each option carries risks of escalation and increased violence.The conflict has already had wider regional implications, with Iran’s spiritual leader’s advisor, Kamal Haraizi, warning Israel of a strong response if it attacks Lebanon. Meanwhile, domestically in Israel, Defense Minister Yoav Galant has demanded accountability for Knesset members and ministers involved in storming the Beit Lid military base, adding another layer of complexity to the crisis.
Key points
- Israel has launched airstrikes on Syrian air defense bases following a deadly rocket attack on the Golan Heights.
- Netanyahu has vowed a severe response to the attack that killed 12 children, while Hezbollah denies involvement.
- International actors are urging restraint to prevent escalation into a wider regional conflict.
- Israel is considering further military action against Hezbollah, with potential for significant escalation.
Contradictions👾While Israel and the US blame Hezbollah for the Golan Heights attack, Hezbollah denies any involvement.
👾Despite Netanyahu’s vow for a severe response, international actors are urging restraint.
