Syria says Israel bombed Iranian-backedbases near the border with Iraq in the early hours of this morning, with Syrian army deserters and Western intelligence sources citing one of the the most extensive airstrikes in Israel in recent months.

Earlier, the Syrian news agency SANA and state media reported that Israel had hit facilities in al-Bukamal, a border town on the Euphrates River on a major supply route, as well as areas in the province and the city of Deir al-Zor where militias have powerful presence. There is currently no comment from an Israeli military spokesman.

Last month, Israeli Defense Forces Chief of Staff Aviv Kotsavi said the rocket attacks “slowed down Iran’s involvement in Syria.” Israel says its goal is to end Tehran’s military presence, which, according to Western intelligence sources, has expanded in recent years to the war-torn country. Sources said the raids focused on al-Bukhamal, which is on the most important land route for Iranian arms deliveries and the deployment of Iranian fighters in Syria, east of Deir ez-Zor province to the city of al-Mayadin, near its airport. .

Also read: Syria | 388,652 dead, thousands missing and displaced after 10 years of conflict – Infographic

At least 40 people –ennea Syrian soldiers and 31 foreign fighters linked to militias filoiranikes –skotothikan last night in air strikes unleashed by Israel, according to the director of non-governmental Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also said 37 people were injured. According to international media, the mission of yesterday’s raids was undertaken by the Israeli 5th generation F-35 aircraft.

Lebanese Hezbollah-led pro-Iranian militias control large areas of eastern, southern and northwestern Syria, as well as several suburbs around Damascus. They also control areas on the Lebanese-Syrian border.

Also read: Syria | 388,652 dead, thousands missing and displaced after 10 years of conflict – Infographic

With information from: CNA