A Turkey-based media outlet opposing the Assad regime, reported Wednesday night that Israeli forces conducted a dramatic operation near Masyaf in Syria's Hama region, several days after initially being reported as an Israeli air strike. The attack allegedly involved ground troops rappelling from aircraft, though no Israeli planes landed. The report claimed that Israeli drones carried out strikes to secure the area where the forces were deployed.
According to the report, the operation targeted a primary military research center reportedly used for chemical weapons production and affiliated with Iran. Israeli helicopters were said to have hovered over the attacked area as commandos rappelled to the ground. Concurrently, Israeli drones allegedly destroyed vehicles belonging to the regime's security forces and blocked roads leading to the landing site. It's important to note that these reports remain unconfirmed by additional sources.
The operation reportedly sparked intense firefights, resulting in three Syrian fatalities and multiple injuries, including civilians. The Israeli commandos purportedly succeeded in capturing two Iranian officers. Sources indicated that Syrian regime security forces delayed rescue teams' access to the affected area, with military casualties being transferred to an undisclosed location.
Some sources speculate that the Syrian regime or its affiliates may have assisted in facilitating the Israeli operation. Reports also suggest that a Russian communication center was targeted, with a Russian radar expert allegedly injured in the attack.
This strike is considered one of the most significant in recent months. Syrian state media reported 16 fatalities and 36 injuries. A local journalist described the attack's intensity as unprecedented, noting that it targeted several military sites and research centers where Iranian and Syrian regime forces are stationed.
In response to the attack, the Syrian regime has established a high-level investigative committee. This team, comprising commanders from air defense, intelligence, and electronic warfare units, aims to assess the operation and probe the surrounding circumstances. Additionally, reports indicate that Israel recently targeted crucial Syrian air defense systems, significantly impairing the regime's aerial surveillance capabilities.
