Israeli tanks reportedly advance near Damascus

Dec 10, 2024 - Israeli forces are said to have launched strikes on key Syrian military sites, escalating regional tensions.

Israeli tanks have reportedly advanced near the Syrian capital of Damascus, following what sources describe as an overnight military operation targeting airbases and army positions. According to Reuters, three security sources confirmed the incursion reached approximately 16 miles southwest of Damascus.

Foreign media report that Israeli troops entered Qatana, six miles into Syrian territory, beyond a demilitarized zone separating the Golan Heights from Syria. The alleged operation included airstrikes on at least three military bases housing helicopters and aircraft.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have denied these claims in a statement to Sky News. Meanwhile, Syrian sources told Reuters the strikes were the most extensive on airbases since the early years of Syria’s conflict under Bashar al-Assad.