Israel strikes Syrian military targets after drone attack on Eilat

The IDF conducted overnight strikes on Syrian military facilities following a drone attack on the southern Israeli city of Eilat, escalating tensions in the region.

According to the IDF, the strikes targeted a central Syrian Army command center, additional infrastructure, and air defense systems. This action was in direct response to the launch of two drones from Syria towards Eilat the previous day.

The drone attack on Saturday saw two Iranian-made Shahed unmanned aerial vehicles intercepted just north of Eilat. To get from Syria to Eilat, the drones apparently flew through Jordanian airspace.

Israeli fighter jets and the Iron Dome air defense system successfully shot down the drones, with no reported injuries. Warning sirens sounded in the Shchoret industrial zone due to concerns about falling debris.

Syria's military confirmed casualties from the Israeli strikes, reporting one soldier killed and three others injured. The attacks reportedly hit military sites in southern Syria and a residential building in the Damascus suburb of Kafr Sousa.

This incident marks the second time in recent days that Israel has struck targets in Syria. The IDF emphasized that it holds the Syrian regime responsible for any attacks originating from its territory.

The strikes occur against the backdrop of ongoing conflicts, including Israel's military offensive in Gaza and near-daily attacks by Hezbollah from Lebanon since October 8. Israel has long maintained a policy of targeting what it describes as Iran-linked facilities in Syria, citing concerns over growing Iranian influence in the country.

As the situation develops, the potential for further escalation between Israel and its neighbors remains a significant concern in the already volatile Middle East region.

* The Times of Israel contributed to this article.