Latest Developments
IDF Strikes Syria: The IDF said it struck “remaining military capabilities” of the former Assad regime in Syria late on April 2. Israel confirmed the airstrikes targeted the Hama and T-4 air bases, while Syrian reports indicated the Barzeh scientific research center near Damascus was also targeted. Western intelligence reports recently suggested that Turkey was seeking to convert the T-4 base into a drone facility.
Firefights in the South: Israel’s military conducted additional operations on April 2 in the Tasil region of southern Syria to confiscate weapons and dismantle terrorist infrastructure.During the operation, the IDF reported that gunmen opened fire on troops, resulting in a firefight in which “several armed terrorists” were killed by Israeli air and ground forces.
Israeli Defense Minister’s Warning: Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on April 2 that the airstrikes were intended to send “a clear message and a warning for the future — we will not allow the security of the State of Israel to be harmed.” Syria’s foreign ministry condemned the strikes and called on the international community to pressure Israel to “stop its aggression.”
FDD Expert Response
“The T-4 military air base, once used by Iran, has become a frequent target of Israeli strikes recently. Reports indicate that Turkey, which has grown increasingly hostile to Israel in recent years, is interested in developing the airfield for its own use. It is crucial that Syria not be used by any groups or nations that could pose a threat to Israel and its neighbors.” —Seth J. Frantzman, Adjunct Fellow
“Syria’s leader Ahmad al-Sharaa continues to have a challenging time asserting authority in southern Syria — a region where different militias operate outside of state control and had been a hotspot for weapons trafficking under the previous regime. The interim president now faces a tough task in establishing control, but he must make it clear that no terrorist groups are allowed to use his territory to launch attacks against Israel.” —Ahmad Sharawi, Research Analyst
FDD Background and Analysis
“Syrian Interim President Announces New Transitional Government,” FDD Flash Brief
“‘No Blank Check’: European Envoys Press Syrian Leader Al-Sharaa to Hold Violent Jihadists Accountable,” FDD Flash Brief
“Syria’s New Constitution: A Shift Toward Unchecked Presidential Powers,” by Ahmad Sharawi
“Syrian authorities continue crackdown on Hezbollah and its affiliates,” by Ahmad Sharawi