BICOM

Israel’s Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepted two rockets fired from Syria over the weekend which were heading into the Israeli Golan Heights.

The rockets, which are thought to have been errant fire from the fighting in Syria, were fired hours apart on Saturday. On both occasions, the Iron Dome shot down the projectiles. It is believed to be the first time that the Iron Dome has been called into action on Israel’s border with Syria since the Syrian civil war began five years ago.

Following the first rocket attack, an IDF statement said: “A short time ago a projectile fired from Syria was intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defence system. No injuries have been reported.”

Hours later, a second IDF statement said: “An additional projectile fired from Syria was intercepted by the Iron Dome aerial defence system.”

In addition, Israeli jets struck Syrian army positions in the Quneitra area. Syria’s official SANA news agency reported that two Syrian soldiers were killed in the strikes. The IDF did not comment on the claims. As the nominal ruling power, Israel holds the Syrian government responsible for stray fire emanating from Syrian territory.

The weekend incidents follow almost daily mortar fire from Syria into Israel during a week-long period until several days ago. Although none caused any injuries, one mortar earlier this month damaged a road. On each occasion, the IDF has responded by returning fire at Syrian army positions. Israel has remained on the side-lines during the five-year civil war in Syria.

Also last week, Syrian army forces fired two anti-aircraft missiles at Israeli planes as they carried out a retaliatory response to mortar fire. The missiles failed to cause any damage. However, it was the first time that the Bashar al-Assad regime had used such weaponry against Israeli forces during the fighting in Syria.