US Condemns Israeli Airstrikes in Syria, Urges De-escalation

Tom Barrack, the US presidential envoy to Syria and Turkey, issued an unusual statement condemning the Israeli airstrikes reported overnight at the Abu al-Duhur military airbase in northwestern Syria. The statement, released on Tuesday via social media, described the strikes as an "unnecessary escalation" that undermines regional stability. Barrack emphasized that the Syrian government has not adopted a hostile stance nor supported proxy forces, consistently favoring de-escalation with Israel.

The strikes reportedly targeted the runway of the Abu al-Duhur airbase in Idlib province, about 70 kilometers from the Turkish border. While the identity of the aircraft was not officially confirmed, the Lebanese Al Mayadeen channel, affiliated with Hezbollah, suggested Israel was behind the operation. Israel has not commented, following its usual policy on such matters.

Syria's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attacks, calling them unjustified violations of Syrian sovereignty and territorial integrity, and labeling them a dangerous escalation threatening regional security and stability. The US statement reiterated America's commitment to hosting and continuing diplomatic talks aimed at reducing kinetic frustrations between the involved nations.

Barrack highlighted that ongoing de-escalation agreements are built through prolonged dialogue with all parties involved. He concluded by urging restraint from all sides, stating that the US believes restraint and engagement offer a more constructive path forward and encourages prioritizing rational dialogue over further military incidents.