Its Damascus – Syria on Wednesday strongly condemned an Israeli airstrike near its presidential palace in Damascus as “dangerous escalation”, warning it could further destabilize an already unstable region.
According to Syria’s Ministry of Defense, an early morning strike targeting areas near the presidential complex in Damascus’ upscale Mezzeh neighborhood caused multiple casualties (military personnel as well as civilians) while also causing considerable structural damage in nearby buildings. State media reported several casualties but this has yet to be verified independently. The blast also caused considerable structural damage.
“Israel’s aggression confirms their hostile policy and willingness to drag the region deeper into conflict,” according to a Syrian government statement. They consider this action as violating Syrian sovereignty and increasing tensions further.
Israeli military, following its standard policy, did not officially comment on the strike; however, security sources in the region reported anonymously that it likely targeted Iranian-linked targets, such as suspected weapons depots or personnel stationed near sensitive government zones.
Mezzeh, which houses multiple security installations, foreign embassies and high-level government residences, has rarely been targeted during previous Israeli operations. Analysts note that striking so close to the presidential palace may signal a bold change in Israel’s tactics; possibly meant to send a powerful signal to Damascus and Tehran.
Israel has carried out scores of airstrikes in Syria over the last decade, primarily aimed at targeting Iranian-backed militias, Hezbollah positions and arms shipments – though striking so close to Syria’s seat of power increases the risk of wider military confrontation.
“Israel has set a new threshold,” stated Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. “Never before have they made such an attempt at striking at inner circles of Syrian leadership; this sends out a strong signal.”
Iran’s foreign ministry condemned Israel’s strike, vowing that any further Israeli aggression would not go unanswered. Russia, an important ally of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, expressed concern and called for restraint and respect of Syrian sovereignty.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Syrian air defenses had responded to the attack but it remains unclear if any incoming missiles were intercepted. Footage shared via social media showed large plumes of smoke rising over Damascus as civilians fled from the scene.
The international community is closely monitoring any retaliatory measures or further escalation from Syria. With regional tensions already running high due to conflicts in Gaza and southern Lebanon, Syria adds another flashpoint into an already volatile Middle Eastern environment.