An Israeli official has revealed that Israel engaged in a "high-level sensitive intelligence exchange" with the United States prior to recent airstrikes carried out in Syria. This information was disclosed during an interview with Fox News, highlighting the close cooperation between the two countries.

According to a report from Yedioth Ahronoth, the official stated, "Highly sensitive intelligence was shared with the United States beforehand, involving top levels of various agencies and bodies." The official emphasized that the Syrian regime cannot operate as it once did under its previous administration, which had supported proxies.

These comments come amidst significant criticism from U.S. Special Envoy for Syria, Thomas Barak, who expressed deep concern over the Israeli strike on Syria's Abu al-Duhur military airbase. Writing on platform X, Barak warned that such actions could lead to unnecessary escalation.

The specific target of the strike remains uncertain. Doron Kadosh, an Israeli Army Radio correspondent, indicated that it is unclear whether the attack aimed at a ground target, such as a shipment arriving at the airport, or if it was intended to prevent an aircraft from landing by targeting the runways at Abu al-Duhur military airport.

Kadosh noted the strategic significance of the airport's location near the Turkish border and speculated that Turkey might be attempting to arm the Syrian army and enhance its military capabilities. However, he stressed that this remains speculative, as no official Israeli statement has been released regarding the attack.

Strategic Importance of Abu al-Duhur Airport

The Abu al-Duhur airbase is considered one of the most significant military installations in northern Syria. It is situated in southeastern Idlib province, approximately 27 kilometers east of Saraqib, adjacent to the town of Abu al-Duhur. The base holds strategic value due to its location between Idlib, Hama, and Aleppo provinces and its proximity to the Syrian desert.

The airport has historically been a key military site for operations in the region. Estimates of its size vary, with some sources suggesting it spans around 16 square kilometers, while others claim it covers up to 23 square kilometers. The facility includes several runways.

Source: Agencies