The moment of truth has arrived in Syria as Israeli strikes lit up the night sky, illuminating the country’s military bases. The strikes targeted suspected Iranian missile storage facilities at the Qamishli airbase in northeastern Syria, which was hit repeatedly for at least 30 minutes. The attacks reportedly destroyed dozens of abandoned helicopters and planes, with massive fires engulfing the Qamishli airbase and an adjacent ammunition dump.
The Israeli military has conducted numerous airstrikes across Syria since the fall of dictator Bashar al-Assad’s regime. The strikes have been primarily aimed at destroying arms plants and bases, with a focus on preventing the abandoned weapons from falling into the wrong hands.
The United States has also joined in the airstrikes, conducting more than 75 “precision airstrikes” in the country. President Joe Biden has warned that ISIS will attempt to reestablish itself in Syria and has pledged that the US will not allow this to happen.
Meanwhile, Assad has fled the country, reportedly heading to Russia where he has been granted asylum. His fall marks the end of 24 years of brutal rule, and his departure is seen as a major blow to his allies Russia and Iran, who have been major backers of his regime.
The rebels’ rapid advance has led to significant gains, with the fall of key cities and the toppling of Assad’s statues. The opposition is now planning for a transitional government, and hopes are rising for a democratic future after years of war.