The big picture:
Following the collapse of Syria's political system, Israel and the United States, citing weapons of mass destruction and security threats, have bombed the country's infrastructure. Syria's new government has protested these bombings, but they have continued unabated.
What they're saying:
Syrian sources quoted by Al-Sharq Al-Awsat confirmed that Saturday night's explosions were the result of coalition airstrikes. Al-Mayadeen TV also reported intense successive blasts in Deir ez-Zor late that night.
Key points:
- The U.S.-led coalition bombed infrastructure near the al-Omar oil field just after withdrawing forces from major eastern Syrian bases, signaling a deliberate clearing of facilities once used by American troops.
- The strikes and withdrawal follow the reported fall of the Assad government in December 2024, raising concerns about who will fill the emerging power vacuum in oil-rich regions like Deir ez-Zor.
- The moves reflect a larger shift in U.S. military strategy—transitioning from direct presence to a more limited role, while trying to prevent instability or enemy use of strategic assets during its phased exit.
Go deeper:
The recent U.S. airstrikes near the al-Omar oil field, following troop withdrawals, raise concerns about Washington’s exit strategy and intentions in Syria. Critics argue these strikes target facilities once managed by U.S. forces to deny access to rivals like Iranian-backed groups and Russian-aligned militias rather than ensure stability.
ahmad shirzadian
