Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed eight soldiers in southern Syria early Wednesday, with the Israeli army citing the strikes as a response to earlier rocket fire.
The exchange of rocket and artillery fire with Hezbollah and Palestinian factions along Israel’s northern borders has heightened concerns of a new front in Israel’s conflicts.
Syrian state media reported the strikes, indicating seven soldiers were wounded. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported 11 soldiers killed, including officers. Israel confirmed targeting Syrian army infrastructure in response to Tuesday’s launches.
Israel rarely comments on specific strikes in Syria but emphasizes opposition to Iran’s expanding presence. Israel has maintained a blockade on the Gaza Strip since October 7, responding to actions by Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas.
The conflict has led to extensive air strikes and a blockade of Gaza, resulting in a significant number of casualties.
During over a decade of civil war in Syria, Israel has launched numerous airstrikes on its northern neighbor, primarily targeting Hezbollah and other Iran-backed forces.
Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights, annexed in 1967, remains a contentious issue, with the United Nations not recognizing the annexation.
