Israel Strikes Syrian Airbase to Block Turkish Military Presence

Israel carried out eight strikes on the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in Syria’s northwestern Idlib province on Tuesday (August 18). Israel acknowledged responsibility for the attack, saying it was aimed at preventing a potential Turkish military deployment at the base.

Israel claimed that Syria was moving toward allowing Turkish forces to be stationed at the airbase. Tel Aviv said such a deployment could violate an existing security understanding between Israel and Syria.

The strikes reportedly damaged the airbase’s runway and several facilities. No casualties have been reported so far.

Turkey rejected Israel’s claims, saying there were no plans to deploy Turkish troops at the airbase. Ankara accused Israel of using the allegation as a justification for attacks against neighboring countries.

Meanwhile, US Special Envoy Tom Barrack said the Syrian government does not pose a threat to Israel. Washington is also working to establish a deconfliction mechanism between Israel, Turkey and Syria to prevent further escalation.