In a recent development that has heightened tensions in the Middle East, suspected Israeli airstrikes in Syria have resulted in significant casualties and damage. The attacks, which occurred overnight on September 9, 2024, targeted areas in the Tartus and Hama governorates, claiming at least 18 lives and injuring nearly 40 others.
Hassan al-Ghabbash, Syria's Health Minister, reported the casualties, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring group, estimated an even higher death toll of 25, including civilians. The strikes, believed to be part of Israel's ongoing military operations in Syria, reportedly targeted sites linked to Iran and Hezbollah.
According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, Israel has conducted over 180 strikes on Syrian territory since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel. These operations are part of Israel's strategy to prevent the transfer of Iranian weapons to Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group allied with Hamas.
The recent airstrikes have caused substantial damage to Syria's infrastructure. Mohammad al-Zamel, the Electricity Minister, described the impact on water and electricity systems as "truly significant." Syrian officials claim that civilian targets were hit, including a highway in Masyaf, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that a scientific research institute working on missile development was also targeted.
Volker Türk, the United Nations human rights chief, expressed grave concern over the escalating situation. He emphasized the urgent need to end the Israel-Hamas conflict and prevent a full-scale regional war. Türk called on the international community to denounce what he termed Israel's "blatant disregard" for international law in its actions in the West Bank and Gaza.
"It seems to me we are at a fork in the road. Continuing down the current path is a treacherous new normal that will enable the region to sleepwalk into a dystopian future."
The situation in the West Bank has also deteriorated. Israeli forces recently concluded a 10-day raid in Jenin, resulting in at least 36 Palestinian casualties. On September 8, 2024, a Jordanian citizen killed three Israelis at the Allenby Bridge border crossing between Jordan and the West Bank.
As tensions continue to rise, the international community faces increasing pressure to address the complex and volatile situation in the Middle East. The ongoing conflict threatens to destabilize the region further, with potential far-reaching consequences for global peace and security.