Kathmandu— An airbase in Idlib province, northwestern Syria, was struck by eight airstrikes early Tuesday morning, causing damage but no reported casualties, according to Syrian state television reports. The strikes targeted the runway of the Abu al-Duhur military base in the eastern countryside and were attributed to Israeli forces by a military source quoted by state TV. This marks the first attack on the airbase since December 2024, when the government of Bashar al-Assad fell.

Details of the Attack

State television reported that “Israeli occupation aircraft early this morning targeted the runway of the Abu Duhur military airport … with eight strikes.” The attack occurred in Idlib’s eastern countryside, and while damage was reported, no casualties were immediately confirmed. There has been no official comment from the Israeli military regarding the incident.

Strategic Significance of Abu al-Duhur

The Abu al-Duhur airbase has a complex history within the Syrian conflict. It sustained significant destruction during 14 years of war, falling under opposition control in 2015 before being recaptured by forces loyal to al-Assad in 2019. However, the base remained non-functional due to extensive damage incurred throughout the fighting.

Escalation of Israeli Strikes

Al Jazeera correspondent Heidi Pett, reporting from Saraqib, noted an increase in Israeli attacks on Syrian military sites since al-Assad fled the country. According to Pett, “There is a continuing Israeli campaign to degrade Syrian military capabilities that began under the Assad regime, but it rapidly escalated immediately after its fall.” She further explained that Israel systematically dismantled the Syrian air force and has recently focused on hindering efforts to rebuild its capacity.

The strikes represent a continuation of ongoing tensions in the region and Israel’s stated policy of targeting Syrian military infrastructure. Further developments are expected as the situation unfolds.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.