The Israeli Navy has dealt a crushing blow to the Syrian fleet, completely destroying it, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said. The operation took place on the night of December 10 and was part of a broader effort to secure Israel's borders and strategic interests in the region.

According to Katz, the warships and boats that were anchored off the Syrian coast were destroyed in targeted attacks. The destruction of the Syrian fleet effectively deprived the country of the ability to use its naval forces for defense or operations. The Israeli side emphasized that the operation was carried out to prevent potential threats and strengthen security in the region.

At the same time, the minister announced his intention to create a so-called “sterile defensive zone” in southern Syria. This territory, as Katz explained, will be under permanent Israeli control and will become a buffer, excluding the presence of any hostile forces, including Iranian units and groups supported by Tehran.

Experts say the destruction of the Syrian fleet and plans to create a defensive zone indicate a new phase in Israel's strategy toward Syria, aimed at neutralizing potential threats from Damascus and its allies, including Iran.