Russia Condemns Israeli Strikes on Syria as Iran Raises Specter of Multi-Front War

Vladimir Putin backs Israel’s right to defend itself while reiterating calls for ‘two-state’ solution.

Israel's Iron Dome air defense system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza on Oct. 11, 2023. Mahmud Hams/AFP via Getty Images

Israeli airstrikes on two Syrian airports have drawn condemnation from Moscow, an ally of Damascus.

“These actions by Israel are a gross violation of Syria’s sovereignty and the basic rules of international law,” Russia’s foreign ministry said on Oct. 12.