US Criticises Israeli Airstrikes on Syrian Military Base

The United States has publicly denounced Israel following recent airstrikes on a Syrian military airbase located near the Turkish border. This criticism marks a rare instance of the US administration speaking out against Israeli military actions, labelling the strikes an 'unnecessary escalation' that could further destabilise the region.

The strikes on Abu Duhur airport, reported on Tuesday, targeted the runway and storage facilities. Syrian state television confirmed the attacks, stating that there were no casualties recorded. In response, Israel has not directly acknowledged the strikes, but has accused Syria of jeopardising the regional security status quo by allegedly allowing Turkish military forces to be stationed at the airport.

Both Turkey and Syria condemned the airstrikes, describing them as unjustified actions contributing to regional instability. Tom Barrack, the US ambassador in Turkey and formerly Donald Trump's special envoy for Syria and Iraq, expressed concern over the strikes in a statement on social media. He noted, 'We are deeply concerned that the confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Abu al-Duhur Airbase constitute an unnecessary escalation that does not advance regional stability.'

In an official statement released by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, it was claimed that Syria was approaching a dangerous breach of security arrangements by permitting Turkish troops at the airbase, which sits approximately 70 kilometres from Turkey.

Syria's foreign ministry responded angrily to the airstrikes, condemning them as 'an unjustified act of aggression' that jeopardises regional stability and security.

Turkey, while not confirming any troop movements to Abu Duhur, rejected Israel’s assertion that it poses a threat, branding the claims as frivolous and aimed at justifying Israel's attacks on Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Abu Duhur airbase has not been operational as a military facility since 2013, after it fell to rebel control during the Syrian civil war. The base has remained in disrepair as Syria works to rebuild its military infrastructure following years of conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has consistently conducted air operations against various targets in Syria, particularly since President Ahmed al-Sharaa came to power. The current strikes represent the most significant military engagement in the region since March.

Ambassador Barrack emphasised that President al-Sharaa has not maintained proxy military forces and has expressed a desire for de-escalation with Israel. He stated that the US remains committed to facilitating diplomatic discussions aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

Al-Sharaa has been working to strengthen ties with Western countries since taking office, notably engaging with the US, as highlighted by his historic visit to the White House last November.