Israel bombs Syrian government buildings in Damascus

Israeli air strikes hit Damascus on Wednesday, reportedly targeting the Syrian defence ministry, military headquarters and the vicinity of the presidential palace.

Footage released on local TV showed an explosion in central Damascus, with huge plumes of smoke enveloping the area around Umayyad Square.

Sana, the Syrian state news service, said there were casualties but did not elaborate.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz posted footage of the bombing on X, writing: "heavy blows have started".

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