In the Syrian province of Aleppo, Israeli air strikes have resulted in the deaths of at least 42 people, according to activists. Among those killed were both Syrian army members and six Lebanese soldiers, as reported by the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights on Friday. The attacks targeted a rocket depot belonging to Hezbollah, although Israeli officials declined to comment on the matter.
The attacks occurred early in the morning near Aleppo international airport and hit several factories as well as the rocket depot. Witnesses reported heavy smoke in the affected areas, with dozens of ambulances rushing to the scene. The Syrian government sealed off the areas affected by the strikes.
The Syrian Defense Ministry confirmed that Israel and militant groups had conducted air attacks in Aleppo early in the morning, leading to casualties among civilians and military personnel. However, it did not specify if these casualties were caused by Israeli airstrikes or attacks by militant groups.
Israel has been carrying out strikes in neighboring Syria for several years now to prevent Iran and its allied militias from expanding their military influence in the region. Recent reports suggest that such attacks have increased since the beginning of the Gaza war in early October. While high numbers of casualties like this are uncommon, they highlight Israel’s continued presence and activities in Syria.
