Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group that evolved from a former al-Qaida affiliate, has been navigating a complex regional landscape as its leader, Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, seeks to distance it from its extremist roots and portray a more modern image. Despite these efforts, Israel remains vigilant against threats emanating from the ongoing turmoil in Syria.
On Saturday, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Herzi Halevi visited the Syrian border, emphasizing that the IDF is closely monitoring the situation to ensure no hostile elements are approaching Israeli territory. He assured that the military is prepared with “a very strong offensive and defensive response” if necessary.
Later, Israeli media reported overnight airstrikes by the IDF targeting a chemical weapons depot near Damascus, alongside strikes on air defense systems and missile production facilities to prevent these assets from falling into the hands of rebel factions. However, these reports have not been officially confirmed by Israeli authorities.
Meanwhile, the United States announced on Sunday through U.S. Central Command’s X account that its forces had carried out “dozens of precision airstrikes” targeting ISIS camps and key operatives in central Syria. ISIS, also known as the Islamic State group, remains a significant security concern in the region.
According to Central Command, these strikes are part of an ongoing mission to “disrupt, degrade, and defeat ISIS” to prevent the group from taking advantage of instability in central Syria to reestablish its foothold.
A senior official in the Biden administration also weighed in, stating, “It is impossible not to view this week’s operations within the broader context of President Biden’s commitment to fully support Israel against Iran and its proxy groups, including Hezbollah, as well as Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.”
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