Britain and the US have expressed deep concern over Israeli airstrikes on Syria's Abu al-Duhur air base, warning of further destabilization. Both nations called for respect for Syrian sovereignty and a return to diplomatic negotiations.
The strong condemnation from key international players like the UK and US highlights ongoing tensions in the region and underscores concerns about escalating conflict and its impact on Syria's stability and sovereignty.
Britain and the United States have voiced strong disapproval of recent Israeli airstrikes targeting the Abu al-Duhur air base in Syria. Barrie Peach, the UK's special representative for Syria, stated he was "deeply concerned" by the attacks, warning they risked further destabilizing the country and called for Israel to respect Syrian sovereignty.
Similarly, US special envoy for Syria Tom Barrack described the strikes as an "unnecessary escalation" and defended the Syrian government, noting its preference for de-escalation. Barrack emphasized that the US encourages diplomatic engagement over military actions and reiterated the belief that restraint and dialogue are the most constructive paths forward.
Israel has not officially confirmed its involvement in the strikes. The Syrian government condemned the attacks, reporting that the runway of the air base was hit. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicated that the strikes occurred after a recent visit by a Turkish military delegation to the airfield, potentially as part of efforts to reactivate it.
Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has previously stated that Syria's reluctance to respond to Israeli strikes is driven by a desire to rebuild the country, questioning Israel's stated security concerns and suggesting expansionist ambitions. Syrian officials have also condemned the "continuation of Israeli military actions" as a threat to regional security.