Israel launches surprise ground raid into Syria

(CLO) Israel has carried out a ground attack in Syria, arresting a Syrian citizen accused of having links to Iran's network.

This is the first time Israel has publicly disclosed information about this operation in the current conflict.

A building destroyed in an Israeli airstrike, in the southern Lebanon town of Ghaziyeh, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024. AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari

Israel has repeatedly carried out airstrikes in Syria targeting Hezbollah members and officials from Iran, close partners of both Hezbollah and Syria. However, Israel has not previously announced any ground attacks.

The arrest was part of a special operation that took place over the past few months, according to the Israeli military. Although the exact date of the operation was not immediately clear, Syria's Sham FM radio station said Israel had carried out a "kidnapping" over the summer of a man in southern Syria who Israel accused of being involved in Iranian activities near the border with the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

In a related development, Israel has also increased airstrikes in Lebanon to prevent Hezbollah from accessing weapons from Iran through Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stressed that the goal of this campaign is to weaken Hezbollah's capabilities and end the group's attacks on northern Israel. The Israeli military announced the arrest of Ali Soleiman al-Assi - who is believed to be living in the Saida area of southern Syria and is linked to Iranian activities.

In Gaza, Israel continues to intensify its offensive in the northern region. A shell hit Kamal Adwan hospital, injuring many patients, including children. The Israeli military denied responsibility, saying the explosion was caused by "an explosive device planted by terrorist organizations in Gaza."

US Vice President Kamala Harris also spoke out about the conflict in Gaza. She called for an end to the war, the return of hostages, and security for Israel and freedom and dignity for Palestinians.

UNICEF and WHO are concerned about the health situation in Gaza, especially the polio vaccination campaign which has been severely affected by the conflict.

Cao Phong (according to FT, CNN)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/israel-bat-ngo-dot-kich-tren-bo-vao-syria-post319839.html