The United States has rebuked Israel following airstrikes on a Syrian military airbase near the Turkish border, characterizing the action as an "unnecessary escalation." Eight strikes reportedly hit the Abu Duhur airport runway and storage facility on Tuesday, according to Syrian state television, though no injuries were reported.
Israel, without directly commenting on the strikes, stated that Syria was on the verge of breaching security agreements by allowing Turkish troops to deploy at the airbase. Syria's foreign ministry labeled the attacks an "unjustified act of aggression" that endangered regional security and stability. Turkey rejected Israel's suggestion that its military presence posed a threat, with the Communications Directorate stating that the allegations were "frivolous" and aimed to legitimize "unlawful airstrikes targeting Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity."
Tom Barrack, the U.S. ambassador in Turkey and special envoy for Syria and Iraq, voiced concern on social media. "We are deeply concerned that the confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Abu al-Duhur Airbase constitute an unnecessary escalation that does not advance regional stability," Barrack wrote.
Barrack also noted that Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, who came to power after the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime, has not maintained proxy forces and has indicated a preference for de-escalation with Israel. The U.S. remains open to hosting diplomatic discussions to address regional tensions. Al-Sharaa has pursued closer ties with Western nations, including the U.S., since assuming leadership.
The Abu Duhur airbase has been non-operational as a military airfield since 2013. Rebel forces had previously taken control of the facility. The notes indicate that the Turkish military has provided assistance to Syria since the ousting of Assad, while Israel maintains a stance of deep suspicion toward both nations. The recent strikes are described as the most significant Israeli airstrikes in Syria since March.