Syrian air defenses intercept ‘hostile targets’ near Damascus

BEIRUT, Dec 25 (Reuters) – Syrian air defenses intercepted “hostile targets” near Damascus, Syrian state media reported on Tuesday.

Loud explosions were heard in the Syrian capital, a Reuters witness said.

“Our air defenses have intercepted a number of hostile targets near Damascus,” Syrian state TV said.

The nature of the targets was not clear.

Lebanese state-run National News Agency said Israeli war planes performed mock raids above southern Lebanon.

“The aggression originated from above the Lebanese territories and a number of hostile targets were downed,” Syrian TV added.

An Israeli military spokeswoman declined to comment on the reports.