Israel’s military reveals footage of daring covert operation on Iran-backed missile plant in Syria

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released footage of a dramatic undercover operation in Syria targeting an underground precision missile production site funded by Iran. Conducted in September 2024, the covert mission involved over 100 soldiers from the elite Shaldag Unit, marking a significant blow to Iran’s missile capabilities in the region.

The operation took place near Masyaf in Syrian territory, months before the fall of the Assad regime. The IDF stated that the missile facility was a critical component of Iran’s strategy to supply advanced weaponry to Hezbollah and other militant proxies threatening Israel’s northern border.

According to the IDF, the facility contained advanced machinery and assembly lines capable of manufacturing precision-guided missiles and long-range rockets. Intelligence gathered over years enabled the successful planning and execution of the raid. The operation involved extensive support from the Israeli Air Force, including helicopters, fighter jets, and naval vessels, ensuring the safety of the soldiers involved.

“On September 8, 2024, during a special operation, troops from the Shaldag Unit raided and destroyed the underground compound designed for manufacturing precision missiles,” the IDF stated. “This mission underscores Israel’s commitment to neutralizing threats to its citizens.”

During the raid, critical machinery, weapons, and intelligence documents were seized. Among the equipment destroyed was a planetary mixer essential for missile production. The IDF reported that all soldiers returned safely to Israeli territory following the operation.

The IDF emphasized the importance of this mission in curbing Iran’s efforts to arm its proxies, including Hezbollah in Lebanon. “The compound was a flagship project for Iran’s ambitions to enhance its proxies’ capabilities,” the statement noted.

Israeli officials have consistently accused the Assad regime of facilitating arms transfers from Iran to Hezbollah. Tehran, a rival of Israel, has long supported militant groups such as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Through alliances with Hezbollah and other Shiite militias, Iran continues to challenge Israel’s security across multiple fronts.