Inside Israel's Shadow War: Airstrikes in Syria and Lebanon
Israel's Shadow War in Syria and Lebanon
Israel has been engaged in a covert airstrike campaign against Iranian and Hezbollah targets in Syria and Lebanon.
The strikes began in 2013, and have intensified in recent years.
Israel's stated goal is to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent military presence in Syria, and to weaken Hezbollah.
Iranian Military Presence in Syria
Iran has been a major supporter of the Syrian government since the start of the Syrian civil war in 2011.
Iran has provided military and financial assistance to the Syrian government, and has also deployed its own troops to Syria.
Israel is concerned that Iran's presence in Syria could lead to the establishment of a permanent Iranian military presence on Israel's doorstep.
Hezbollah's Role in Syria
Hezbollah is a Lebanese Shia militant group that has been closely allied with Iran since its founding in 1982.
Hezbollah has fought alongside the Syrian government in the Syrian civil war.
Israel is concerned that Hezbollah's presence in Syria could lead to the group acquiring advanced weapons, such as anti-aircraft missiles.
Israeli Airstrikes
Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Syria and Lebanon since 2013.
The strikes have targeted Iranian and Hezbollah military positions, as well as weapons convoys.
Israel has not publicly acknowledged its role in the airstrikes, but its involvement is widely believed.
Impact of the Airstrikes
The Israeli airstrikes have had a significant impact on the conflict in Syria.
The strikes have killed hundreds of Iranian and Hezbollah fighters, and have destroyed weapons and equipment.
The strikes have also helped to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent military presence in Syria.
The Future of the Airstrikes
It is unclear how long Israel will continue its airstrike campaign in Syria and Lebanon.
However, it is likely that Israel will continue to target Iranian and Hezbollah targets as long as these groups maintain a presence in Syria.
The Israeli airstrikes are a reminder of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran, and the complex regional dynamics of the Middle East.
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