Israel and Syria hold high-level talks following strikes on Abu al-Duhur airbase

On August 18, 2026, the Israeli Air Force conducted a strike on the Abu al-Duhur airbase in northwestern Syria, dropping at least eight bombs on runways and hangars. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the operation was preemptive, based on intelligence suggesting that Turkey intended to deploy drones, radar systems, and personnel to the facility, which Israel considers a threat to its regional air superiority and security. Ankara has categorically denied these allegations and rejected the claims of any planned military activity at the site.

Following the strike, diplomatic tensions between Israel and Turkey escalated, while contact between Israel and Syria was temporarily severed. To prevent further escalation, high-level officials from Israel and Syria, including Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani and the head of the Mossad, Roman Gofman, met in Jordan on Sunday, August 23. According to reports from the Syrian state news agency SANA and other sources, the participants discussed a potential security agreement, the cessation of Israeli strikes, and the establishment of a U.S.-monitored "special operations room" to manage regional security, including activities involving Turkey.

While the situation remains volatile, both nations are exploring channels for de-escalation. Syria aims to end foreign military presence, while Israel maintains that its actions are necessary to uphold its "red lines" regarding regional security. Future negotiations are expected to continue despite deep-seated distrust between Damascus and Jerusalem.