Israel strikes airbase in Syria

Israel launched an airstrike on the Abu Al Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria on August 18, 2026, targeting the runway and storage areas, according to reports citing unnamed military sources and local civilians.

The strike reportedly caused no human casualties. Abu Al Duhur, located approximately 70 kilometers from the Turkish border, has a complex history. Since 2013, it has not functioned as an active airbase and has changed hands multiple times during Syria's civil war. Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in 2024, the base has been repurposed as a training center for the Syrian army.

This incident occurs amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Turkey regarding Syria's security. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently stated that Israel's persistent attacks threaten Syria's security and undermine its territorial integrity. In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz asserted that Israel would not permit the strengthening of the Syrian army in a manner that could pose a threat to his country.