Israel Warns US of Turkey's Plans to Deploy Air Defense Systems in Northern Syria

Israel has informed the United States that Turkey is preparing to deploy radar systems at the al-Dohour airbase in northern Syria, marking an initial step toward installing air defense systems operated by Turkish troops. Israeli officials warned that this move could significantly alter the regional balance of power. The al-Dohour base, located about 70 kilometers from the Turkish border, has been identified as the main site for this military buildup, though no exact timeline for the arrival of Turkish forces was provided.

In response, Israel conducted a targeted strike on the airbase, focusing precisely on the runways to prevent the arrival of equipment or personnel by air. Four hits were reported, intended as a sharp warning to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa. An Israeli source explained that since diplomatic messages had failed to deter the buildup, Israel resorted to a pinpoint warning strike. Prior to the attack, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated that Syria had been warned in advance to avoid escalation, emphasizing that the operation was carried out only after the Syrian regime ignored the warning. Gallant concluded by asserting Israel's commitment to preventing any threat to its security.