By Quds News Network
Damascus (Quds News Network)- Israel has escalated its attacks on Syria following the overthrow of President Bashar Al-Assad by the Syrian opposition. This power shift has raised regional tensions, with Israeli forces invading the demilitarized zone between Syria and the Golan Heights, violating the 1974 Disengagement Agreement. The agreement, brokered by the United Nations, established a ceasefire and buffer zone in 1974.
Israeli tanks reportedly crossed the ceasefire line, reaching areas near Raqad Bridge in southern Syria’s Quneitra province. Simultaneously, Israeli forces declared parts of northern occupied Golan as closed military zones.
Airstrikes on Damascus and Beyond
Israeli airstrikes targeted suspected chemical weapons labs near Damascus, according to Israel’s Channel 12. These facilities were believed to pose a risk of falling into the hands of opposition forces. Additional strikes hit the Khalkhalah airbase in southern Syria, as confirmed by regional sources and Reuters.
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The Israeli Air Force reportedly launched over ten airstrikes on sites near Damascus, including Mazzeh Airport and the Kafr Sousa area. Explosions were also reported in Damascus’s security district, which houses intelligence and customs buildings.
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Military Buildup in the Syrian Golan Heights
Israel has significantly reinforced its military presence in the occupied Golan Heights with additional ground and air units.
Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli called for the occupation of Al-Sheikh Mountain, which spans Syria, Lebanon, and occupied Palestine. Israeli media reported that the cabinet is preparing to establish a buffer zone in the area.
Former Israeli Defense Minister Avigdor Lieberman expressed concerns over the impact of Syrian developments on Jordan. He highlighted the strategic sensitivity of the Israel-Syria-Jordan border triangle.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed officials not to comment on the Syrian situation without prior approval. The Israeli security cabinet postponed its scheduled meeting to address these developments.
The 1974 agreement, established under UN auspices, marked a ceasefire between Israel and Syria, ensuring a long-term cessation of hostilities. The recent escalation violates this accord, which aimed to maintain peace in the Golan region.
9 December 2024
Source: countercurrents.org