Israel's Strike in Syria: The Larger Implications for the United States

Stability in the Middle East is in the U.S. national interest, and taming Syrian aggression is part of this calculus.

Reports from U.S. and Israeli officials indicate that airstrikes a few weeks ago in Masyaf, Western Syria, were not merely a straightforward aerial assault. Instead, they served as “cover” for a covert operation conducted by the elite “Sayeret Matkal,” Israel’s General Staff Reconnaissance Unit. 

The operation, which involved a daring helicopter raid over 125 miles into Syrian territory, aimed to destroy a significant missile production site at the Scientific Studies and Research Center (SSRC) near Masyaf. The site, deeply embedded underground, was utterly destroyed after Israeli Special Forces eliminated several Syrian guards and set explosives throughout the facility.

This raid is a reminder of the complex network of threats emanating from the Assad regime, some that project globally and are part of an international network of transnational criminals. Yet the SSRC is not just any target; it is the very site linked to the infamous Al Kibar nuclear facility—built with North Korean assistance and destroyed by Israel in 2007. Unconfirmed reports are suggesting the existence of another nuclear-related facility in the vicinity, raising further concerns about Syria’s covert activities.

Moreover, the SSRC’s track record is troubling. In 2017, following the Assad regime’s heinous chemical attack on Khan Shaykhun, President Donald J. Trump ordered a targeted strike on Al-Shayrat Air Base, the origin of the attack. Shortly after, the Trump Administration sanctioned 271 SSRC employees involved in developing and deploying the deadly sarin chemical agent. These sanctions highlighted their long-standing expertise in chemistry and their support for Syria’s chemical weapons program since at least 2012.

The 129th report of the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), issued just last week, reveals that the Assad regime remains noncompliant with the Chemical Weapons Convention. The report underscores Syria’s failure to fully and verifiably account for its chemical weapons activities and arsenal, showing a continued violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2118. 

The recent Israeli operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing global challenges in dealing with rogue regimes. Despite international efforts, Syria’s pursuit of weapons of mass destruction remains a threat to regional and global security. It also raises critical questions about the efficacy of international mechanisms like the OPCW in holding violators accountable. As the Assad regime continues to flout international norms, the U.S. and its allies must remain vigilant and prepared to counter these dangerous activities decisively.

The recent Israeli operation could be part of a broader pattern of preemptive actions taken by Israel to prevent the proliferation of advanced weaponry and weapons of mass destruction in the region. As Iran continues to expand its influence in Syria, bolstering its proxies and military presence, such actions by Israel highlight the ongoing shadow war between Israel and Iran. This raid serves as a message not only to Syria but also to Iran and Hezbollah, signaling that Israel will not hesitate to act decisively against threats to its national security, even deep within hostile territory.

The failure of the Assad regime to comply with the Chemical Weapons Convention and UN Security Council Resolution 2118 also raises serious questions about the efficacy of international institutions like the UN and the OPCW. Despite multiple reports, sanctions, and resolutions, the Assad regime continues to develop and deploy chemical weapons. This situation calls for a reassessment of these institutions’ accountability and enforcement mechanisms. The international community must demand stronger action against non-compliance to prevent further violations and protect global security norms.

Implications for U.S. Policy

The Israeli raid on the missile production site in Syria serves as a reminder and an opportunity for the U.S. to reevaluate its current approach to Syria and broader Middle Eastern policy.