Kathmandu— Airstrikes on an airbase in northwest Syria on Tuesday, attributed to Israel, appear intended to send a dual message to both the Syrian government and its ally, Turkiye, according to analysts. The attack targeted Abu al-Duhur airbase in Idlib province, with Syria, the United States, and Jordan all identifying Israel as the likely perpetrator. Experts suggest the strikes aim to prevent the reconstruction of Syria’s air force while also signaling concern over growing Turkish influence within the region.

Israel's Concerns Over Syrian Air Power

Analysts believe the bombing of an airbase is a clear indication that Israel does not want Syria to rebuild its air force in the coming years. Following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, Israeli forces attacked Syrian military bases and infrastructure, significantly damaging the new government’s air defense capabilities. Since then, Israel has maintained a presence in the Syrian Golan Heights, establishing checkpoints and, at times, detaining Syrian citizens.

A Message to Ankara

The strike on Abu al-Duhur is also seen as a message directed towards Turkiye, which maintains a military presence in northern Syria and previously supported anti-Assad rebel groups. The airbase’s proximity to Idlib places it within the Turkish sphere of influence, prompting Israeli concern over Ankara's role in the region. Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has even characterized Turkiye as “the new Iran.” Similar attacks in March 2025 targeted airbases reportedly visited by Turkish military delegations, suggesting a pattern of signaling.

Limited Damage, Clear Intent

While Tuesday’s attack caused damage to airstrips and storage facilities, reports indicate no jets were destroyed and there were no reported injuries. Senior analyst Nanar Hawach of the International Crisis Group noted that the Israelis appear focused on preventing Syria from re-establishing its air capabilities rather than eliminating an immediate threat. Samy Akil, a senior advisor with The Syria Report, added that even if rebuilt, the Syrian air force’s remaining jets pose little danger to Israel.

Seeking Peaceful Relations

Despite Israeli concerns, some analysts emphasize Syria's stated desire for peaceful relations with Israel and its willingness to negotiate a security deal. Asli Aydintasbas, an associate senior policy fellow at the European Council on Foreign Relations, pointed out that Syrian officials have repeatedly expressed their lack of interest in confrontation with Israel since the fall of al-Assad. Kheder Khaddour, a nonresident scholar at the Malcolm H Kerr Carnegie Middle East Center, echoed this sentiment, stating that Syria has not posed a threat to Israel.

The recent airstrike underscores ongoing tensions and strategic calculations in the region as multiple actors navigate complex relationships and security concerns. Further developments are likely to depend on continued negotiations and actions taken by both Syrian and Turkish forces.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.