DAMASCUS — U.S. Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack has expressed strong concern over Israeli airstrikes that targeted the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in northwestern Syria, describing the operation as an “unnecessary escalation” that could undermine regional stability.
Syrian state media reported that eight Israeli airstrikes hit the base on Tuesday, targeting the runway and storage facilities. The strikes caused material damage to the military site, but Syrian sources said no casualties were reported. The attack was reportedly the first Israeli strike against Syrian government facilities since March.
Barrack said Washington was “deeply concerned” about the confirmed Israeli strikes, arguing that the attack would not contribute to stability in the region. He also pointed to the position of Syria’s current government, saying it has not adopted an aggressive posture and has repeatedly indicated a preference for de-escalation and dialogue with Israel.
The strikes have heightened tensions involving Israel, Syria and Türkiye, particularly because Ankara has been strengthening its military and political relationship with Syria’s new government. The Abu al-Duhur base is located in Idlib province, relatively close to the Turkish border.
Israel has defended the operation, saying it was concerned that Syria could violate an existing security arrangement by allowing an increased Turkish military presence at the base. Israeli officials have also expressed concern about the rebuilding of Syrian military capabilities with Turkish assistance.
Türkiye strongly condemned the strikes, saying they violated Syria’s territorial integrity. Ankara has rejected Israeli claims that its military activities in Syria represented an imminent threat.
The United States is now seeking to establish a deconfliction mechanism between Israel, Türkiye and Syria to reduce the risk of military misunderstandings or accidental confrontation. Barrack has emphasized that improved communication between the three sides is necessary as their military activities increasingly overlap inside Syria.
The latest developments add to growing diplomatic pressure on Israel and Syria to avoid further escalation. Washington has been supporting efforts to stabilize Syria’s post-Assad government while encouraging Damascus and Israel to pursue security arrangements through negotiations rather than military confrontation.
