Turkey to Base S-400 Air Defense System in Syria Despite Israeli Bombings

Syria is fast becoming a flashpoint between Turkey and Israel, as Ankara pushes ahead with plans to deploy an S-400 air defense system—purchased from Russia—at the T4 airbase in central Syria, despite recent Israeli airstrikes targeting the region.

According to circulating online footage and media reports, Turkish military hardware, including air defense units, is being transferred to bases near Homs and Palmyra. The move is reportedly part of Ankara’s broader strategy to cement its influence in Syria by supporting local proxies and establishing long-term military installations, reports claim.

On Wednesday, Israeli Air Force launched around 25 strikes on military positions across Syria, killing at least four defense personnel and wounding a dozen more. Syrian state media also reported civilian casualties, including nine deaths in Daraa Province, allegedly caused by one of the strikes.

Israel has made clear its position: it will not tolerate Turkish bases near its border. The Israeli government has vowed to prevent Ankara from establishing a military foothold in Syria, citing the risk of empowering former militants and destabilizing the region.

Turkey, meanwhile, is attempting to downplay the standoff. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, speaking to Reuters, said Ankara has no intention of clashing with Israel in Syria. “We do not want a confrontation with Israel in Syria, because Syria belongs to the Syrians,” Fidan stated. “The security issues of Syria should be decided by the Syrians themselves.”

However, Fidan also criticized Israel’s actions in Syria, accusing Tel Aviv of “destroying the possibilities for confronting the Islamic State.” He warned that such operations risk igniting future instability. “I don't think this is good for Israel's future in the region,” he concluded.

The conflict has drawn international concern. On Thursday, UN Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen condemned Israel’s attacks, saying they undermine efforts to rebuild Syria and could constitute violations of international law. Pedersen urged Israel and other actors to respect Syria’s sovereignty and seek diplomatic channels instead of military solutions.