DAMASCUS, Syria — Israeli airstrikes hit the Abu al-Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria early Tuesday, August 18, 2026, with Syrian state media reporting eight strikes on the runway and storage facilities. The Israeli military did not comment, while the attacks drew criticism from a senior U.S. envoy and strong condemnation from Turkey.
Syrian state-run Ekhbariya, citing a military source, reported that the Israeli airstrikes in Syria targeted parts of the former military airbase. A separate military source and a civilian living near the facility said there were no casualties.
- Eight strikes were reported at Abu al-Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria.
- The runway and storage facilities were among the areas reportedly hit.
- U.S. envoy Tom Barrack called the action an “unnecessary escalation.”
- Turkey urged the international community to take a stronger position against Israel’s attacks on Syria.
Israeli Airstrikes in Syria Target Abu al-Duhur Base
The Abu al-Duhur base lies about 70 km (43.5 miles) from the Turkish border. It has not operated as a dedicated military airfield since 2013 and changed control several times during Syria’s 14-year civil war.
The strikes appear to mark the first reported Israeli attack on Syrian government assets since March. Israel has repeatedly conducted operations against Syrian military and government-linked targets, particularly since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad in 2024.
The Israeli military declined to comment on Tuesday’s strikes, and Syria’s defence ministry did not respond to requests for comment.
U.S. Envoy Calls Strike an Unnecessary Escalation
Ambassador Tom Barrack, the U.S. special presidential envoy for Syria and Iraq, expressed concern over the attack. He said the strikes did not contribute to regional stability and urged the parties to pursue restraint and engagement.
“We are deeply concerned that the confirmed Israeli airstrikes on Abu al-Duhur Airbase constitute an unnecessary escalation that does not advance regional stability.”
Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani also called for an end to the attacks. Speaking in Damascus alongside International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi, he said Syria would continue using diplomatic channels to challenge Israel’s policy.
Shibani argued that the strikes lacked security justification and warned that Israel’s approach toward Syria could have wider regional consequences.
Turkey Condemns Israeli Attacks on Syria
Turkey issued one of the strongest reactions to the strikes, saying they violated Syria’s territorial unity and integrity. Ankara called on the international community to adopt a more decisive position against what it described as Israel’s escalating aggression.
Relations between Turkey and Israel have become increasingly tense over Syria. Ankara has accused Israel of attempting to destabilize Syria and weaken its new administration.
Turkey has emerged as a major ally of President Ahmed al-Sharaa’s government, supporting the rebuilding of Syria’s military, state institutions and infrastructure. It has also provided military and diplomatic assistance to Damascus.
Why Syria Has Become a Growing Security Flashpoint
Israel has said it remains deeply suspicious of Syria’s new leadership because of its Islamist militant roots. Israeli officials have also warned against the development of Syrian military capabilities that could threaten Israel.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa said in July that Syria had been seeking a security agreement with Israel. At the same time, Israel has seized territory in southwestern Syria and carried out strikes against Syrian military equipment and weapons since Assad’s removal.
The security situation has also drawn attention to Syria’s efforts to rebuild its air capabilities. Syrian forces conducted air exercises in northern Syria earlier this month using Russian-made MiG-21 fighter aircraft.
Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported on August 11 that Israeli security officials had detected signs of Syrian efforts to rebuild its air force, including pilot recruitment and flight training. The report said Israel had shared its concerns with the United States.
What Happens Next
The latest Israeli airstrikes in Syria come amid already heightened tensions involving Israel, Turkey and Syria. The incident could further complicate efforts to establish security arrangements between Damascus and Israel while increasing pressure on regional and international actors to prevent further escalation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Abu al-Duhur airbase?
Abu al-Duhur airbase is in northwestern Syria, approximately 70 km from the Turkish border. The facility has been out of service as a dedicated military airfield since 2013.
Why did Turkey condemn the Israeli strikes?
Turkey said the attacks violated Syria’s territorial unity and integrity and urged the international community to take a stronger stance against Israel’s military actions in Syria.
Praveen Yadav is the Founder and Content Creator of The Nation Bulletin, an independent digital news platform focused on delivering timely, reliable and meaningful news from India and around the world.
