IDF Launches Massive Campaign to Destroy Assad's Strategic Military Assets in Syria

In a major escalation following the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have reportedly destroyed much of the former regime’s strategic military capabilities. Over a 48-hour bombing campaign, Israel’s Air Force and Navy conducted more than 400 strikes, targeting critical military sites across Syria in an effort to prevent advanced weaponry from falling into the hands of hostile forces.

The operation, dubbed "Bashan Arrow" by the IDF, struck over 320 targets, including air bases, missile depots, chemical weapon sites, and naval vessels, from Saturday evening onwards. The IDF claims that between 70-80 percent of the Assad regime’s strategic military capabilities were neutralized, including long-range missiles, fighter jets, helicopters, tanks, radars, and more.

The campaign’s initial strikes targeted Syrian air defenses to create a free operating space for Israeli aircraft, followed by waves of bombings on key military sites in Damascus, Homs, Latakia, Palmyra, and Tartus. One of the most significant actions was the destruction of 15 Syrian naval vessels at the Latakia port by Israeli Navy missile boats. Additionally, several chemical weapon sites were reportedly hit, preventing further potential threats.

Israeli officials have made it clear that their operations are aimed at ensuring national security and preventing the transfer of weapons to groups such as Hezbollah, which has long been a major concern for Israel. The IDF’s swift action followed the sudden fall of the Assad regime after a lightning offensive by Syrian rebel forces, raising fears that the weapons in Syria could be seized by jihadist groups hostile to Israel.

In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel seeks peaceful relations with the new Syrian regime but will not hesitate to take military action if the country allows Iranian forces or weapons to be transferred to Hezbollah. “We intend to do whatever is necessary to ensure our security,” Netanyahu said, sending a strong message to the new government forming in Syria.

Defense Minister Israel Katz also warned rebel groups that pose a threat to Israel’s security would be targeted, stressing that Syria’s new leaders must avoid following in Assad’s footsteps. He highlighted the creation of a “sterile defensive zone” in southern Syria to prevent terrorist threats to Israel.