Ocnus.Net

Defence & Arms
Iran establishing permanent military presence in Syria near Israeli border
By Avital Zippel, JOL Nov 11, 2017
Nov 12, 2017 - 9:14:08 AM

An intelligence source told the BBC that Iran is continually constructing a permanent military base in Syria only 50 km from the northern Israeli border. The construction has significantly progressed in latest months, but the purpose of the compound remains unclear.

An intelligence source told the BBC that Iran is establishing a permanent military base in Syria, according to a report issued on Friday. The official claimed that the construction has significantly progressed, which may be a result of recent gains made by Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s army.

The source told the BBC that over 20 low-rise buildings were constructed and are likely purposed for housing soldiers and vehicles. However, the exact purpose of the site could not be entirely verified. The compound is reportedly located 14 km (about 8 miles) south of Damascus and only 50 km (about 31 miles) from the Israeli Golan Heights border.

The base in Syria

As reported by JOL in August, Mossad chief Yossi Cohen warned of the existence of Iranian presence in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen. “In the places where ISIS’ presence is decreasing, Iran is operating to fill the void,” said Cohen.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded to these statements by saying that they serve as proof against the nuclear agreement with Iran. “Israel is not committed in any way to the international agreements that Iran has signed,” he clarified. “Israel will continue to act with determination and in various ways to protect itself from these threats.”



Source: Ocnus.net 2017