Israel retaliates ‘Syrian attack’ on territory

ISRAELI warplanes struck Syrian army targets on the Golan Heights early Wednesday hours after rockets hit the Israeli-held sector, in what the Jewish state said was “a clear message” to Damascus.

The incident took place just 10 days after another Israeli air strike on the same areas of the Syrian Golan killed six Hezbollah fighters and an Iranian general, sending tensions soaring on the strategic plateau, half of which is occupied by Israel.

Nobody was injured by Tuesday’s rocket fire from Syria, which Israel said was “intentional”. The Israeli air force responded nearly 12 hours later by striking Syrian army targets around midnight (2200 GMT).

“Earlier today (Tuesday), rockets hit the Golan Heights. In response, a short while ago the IDF targeted Syrian army artillery posts,” an army statement said, indicating it held Damascus responsible “for all attacks emanating from its territory.”

Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon said Israel would not tolerate any fire on its territory and would respond to any attack, whether by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad or any other group.

“The overnight attack by the air force against regime targets in an area under Assad’s control in Syria is a clear message that we will no put up with any fire at Israeli territory or any breach of our sovereignty, and we will respond with force and determination,” he said in a statement.

He warned Israel would “exact a heavy price” from anyone attacking its territory.