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.READ MORE: Top U.S. diplomat for anti-Islamic State coalition quits over Trump’s Syria pulloutThe nature of the targets was not clear.Lebanese state-run National News Agency said Israeli war planes performed mock raids above southern Lebanon.WATCH: Syria alleges Israel jets behind air strikes in Damascus “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.WATCH: Turkey steps up military presence on both sides of Syrian border