Israel Strikes Targets Across Syria as Russian Ships Vacate Tartus Naval Base

Port City of Latakia Hit by Heavy Strikes as Tensions Rise in Syria

The port city of Latakia, located on Syria’s Mediterranean coast, experienced intense attacks recently, according to a report by the BBC. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights confirmed that “Israeli warplanes” were responsible for the strikes, which resulted in significant damage, including the destruction or sinking of around 10 Syrian naval vessels. Additionally, the attacks leveled the “Barzeh scientific research center” in Latakia.

This research center had previously been targeted in 2018 by Western forces. At the time, then-U.S. Defense Secretary Jim Mattis had referred to it as a component of Syria’s “chemical weapons infrastructure.”

Latakia and its surrounding areas are notable for being home to the Alawite religious minority, the group to which Syrian President Bashar al-Assad belongs.

In a speech in Haifa, Israeli politician Avi Katz issued a stark warning to rebel leaders in Syria. “Anyone who aligns themselves with Assad will meet Assad’s fate,” Katz said. “We will not allow an extreme Islamic terrorist entity to threaten Israel’s borders and endanger our citizens.”

Interestingly, the nearby port city of Tartus, located approximately 100 kilometers south of Latakia, was not affected by the strikes. Russia, which has maintained a naval presence in Tartus for over 50 years, currently has three frigates, two auxiliary vessels, and a Kilo-class diesel-electric submarine stationed there. However, satellite images taken on Monday suggested that the Russian warships had left the base. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov clarified that the ships were conducting naval maneuvers in the Mediterranean.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov addressed the situation, stating that Moscow is actively working to establish connections in Syria with groups that could ensure the security of its military installations. “We are taking all necessary steps in this regard,” Peskov told reporters.

The escalating tensions in the region highlight the precarious geopolitical dynamics as multiple actors vie for influence in this war-torn part of the world.