Sources including a Sky News report quoting rebel forces in Syria state Russian fighter planes have begun an aerial assault against them in Syria. The situation across Israel’s border has been under the scrutiny of the intelligence community as Russian military involvement in the region presents a new reality for the IDF, particular pertaining to Israel Air Force’s freedom of movement in the region.

Reports state that thousands of Russian troops are on their way to Syria, reportedly to combat ISIS and without any intention of becoming militarily involved with Israel. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu last week met in Moscow with Russian President Vladimir Putin and one may assume this too was discussed between the leaders. It was also reported that senior military intelligence experts accompanied the prime minister, a rare move on trips abroad. This many believed signaled the significance of the visit and the growing concern regarding events developing in Syria.

The Russian upper parliament earlier this week gave its approval for Russian military involvement in Syria. It has already been known that Russian military experts have been in Syria and a command center has reportedly been set up in Baghdad, which is overseeing the Russian military strikes.

For Israel the situation is one of concern amid a realization the situation was fragile even before Moscow’s involvement. Adding to this is the realization that US President Barak Obama views Iran as a key component in fighting ISIS in both Iraq and Syria. Some veteran analysts quote statements from former PM Menachem Begin, who during the Iran Iraq War wished both sides much success. It is explained that today too the situation mimics this to some degree, but it does appear all are in agreement that the common enemy is ISIS.

Most Israeli intelligence experts have told the media that while Syria is far from an ally of Israel, Jerusalem prefers a known enemy like Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad to the extremist Islamic State. It is added that Assad and his father before him have maintained a quiet border with Israel along the Golan Heights since the October 1973 Yom Kippur War so this relationship has proven itself.

It is also pointed out that the visit to NYC by PM Netanyahu to address the United Nations General Assembly is not coincidental with the Russian assault underway, coinciding with increased US military involvement in the region against ISIS, Mr. Netanyahu is likely to hold high-level briefings with senior US officials.

In comments to the media on Tuesday, 16 Tishrei, Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon commented on the ongoing civil war in Syria, confirming the defense and intelligence communities continue to carefully monitor events.

Reports received on Wednesday afternoon 17 Tishrei during the afternoon hours Israel time state Russian planes have hit targets near Homs, killing over two dozen people.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)