Israel has carried out its first airstrikes in Syria in nearly a month, saying it hit weapons belonging to the government in retaliation for the firing of two projectiles towards Israel.

DAMASCUS, Syria — Israel and Syria are in direct contact and have in recent weeks held face-to-face meetings aimed at calming tensions and preventing conflict in the border region between the two longtime foes, five people familiar with the matter said.

Israel has launched hundreds of airstrikes in Syria since the civil war began, aiming to block weapons transfers to armed groups it sees as threats. Recent diplomatic efforts had signaled a potential thaw, including news that Israel is in direct contact with the new Syrian government, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa.