IDF Strikes on Syrian Military Assets Radically Shift Threat Landscape for Israel

In a powerful display of military might, the Israeli Air Force launched over 500 attacks on Syrian military targets within a 48-hour period this week, following the collapse of the Assad regime. According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), this unprecedented series of airstrikes has drastically altered the threat any future Syrian regime, including the newly emerging leadership of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), could pose to Israel.

The IDF revealed that it successfully destroyed over 90% of Syria's advanced anti-aircraft missiles, including the SA22 and SA17 systems, which had been used to counter Israeli attacks on Iranian weapon smuggling routes. In total, around 85% of Syria’s air defense systems were wiped out, including less advanced missile launchers.

Among the key victories, the IDF reported the complete destruction of Syria's SU-22 and SU-24 aircraft squadrons, eliminating approximately 40% of Syria's air force. The strikes also targeted 100% of Syria’s explosive drones and 390 significant military targets, further weakening the country’s ability to threaten Israel.

With the destruction of Syria’s radar capabilities, Israel now enjoys unparalleled air superiority over Syrian airspace, a significant shift from the previous power dynamics under Assad's rule. Additionally, the IDF has decimated Syria’s larger-scale firepower, though some weapons may still be concealed underground, which could take time to uncover.

As a result of these strikes, Syria now has only one remaining border crossing through which weapons can be transferred to Hezbollah, significantly hampering the terror group’s rearming capabilities. Iran’s presence in Syria has also been dramatically reduced, largely due to the fear of retaliation from HTS, which has grown in power following Assad’s fall.

While the IDF continues to assess the long-term effects of these strikes, it is clear that Syria's military capabilities have been severely crippled, making any potential future threats to Israel far less formidable.