IDF racing to calm fears of Damascus advance as Syrian strikes intensify 

The Israeli military moved quickly today (Tuesday) to quash rumors of an advance on Damascus, even as details emerged of its most sweeping strikes against Syrian forces in recent memory.

"Our forces are exactly where they should be - in defensive positions within the buffer zone near the border. Nothing more," said IDF Arabic spokesman Avichay Adraee, responding to widespread reports in Arab media that Israeli tanks had reached within three kilometers of Qatana, a Damascus suburb.

The Lebanese network Al-Mayadeen had claimed Israeli forces were just 20 kilometers from the Syrian capital and had seized several villages in its southern outskirts - reports that threatened to further inflame regional tensions.

Meanwhile, a clearer picture is emerging of Israel's intensive 48-hour operation against Syrian military assets. Security sources told Reuters that Israeli strikes have systematically targeted Syria's military infrastructure, destroying numerous aircraft and helicopters at multiple air bases across the country. The campaign has also reportedly hit naval facilities, ground forces, and sites linked to chemical weapons production, including facilities in the Barzeh district and Damascus International Airport.

The scope of the operation marks a dramatic escalation in Israel's military engagement with Syria. While Israel has conducted hundreds of strikes in Syria over the past decade - typically targeting Iranian-linked forces - the systematic targeting of Syria's conventional military capabilities represents a significant shift in strategy.

The IDF's swift denial of any advance toward Damascus underscores Israeli concerns about potential escalation. With fighting ongoing in Gaza and regular exchanges of fire with Hezbollah along the Lebanese border, Israel appears eager to prevent any misunderstandings that could lead to further regional escalation.

Still, the intensity of recent strikes against Syrian forces suggests a new phase in Israel's northern campaign, even as military spokespeople emphasize their defensive posture. The message to Damascus is clear: stay out of this conflict, or face the consequences.