Syria Rebuilds Air Force Amid Israeli Concerns Over Turkish Involvement

Recent satellite images reveal ongoing reconstruction at Syria's Al-Douhour military airbase, which has been inactive since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime about a year and a half ago. Since late May, Syrian forces have been resurfacing runways, constructing hangars and warehouses, and preparing the southeastern part of the base for new systems deployment. There are indications that Turkey may be assisting in this military rehabilitation effort.

Israeli officials have expressed concern over the restoration of Syria's air capabilities and the potential Turkish military presence in the country, both of which could restrict Israel's freedom of operation in Syrian airspace. The Israeli Defense Forces declined to comment on a recent strike attributed to Israel at the Al-Douhour airbase. Earlier reports from Fox News indicated that Israel shared intelligence with the United States regarding Syria's military rebuilding, highlighting Turkey's attempts to establish a foothold approximately 70 kilometers from the Turkish border.

Under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Turkey is increasing its involvement in the region, a move Israel is unwilling to accept due to the risk of Turkish forces expanding near its borders. This development follows Syria's confirmation of possessing nuclear material and refusal to dismantle its facility, further complicating regional security dynamics. Israeli defense sources have noted an acceleration in Syria's air force restoration efforts.