The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the attack targeted sites in Masyaf in the western Hama province. The Britain-based group said ambulances were seen rushing to the area, Xinhua news agency reported. He said a large fire was seen near Wadi al-Oyun in western Hama after the attacks.

Syrian state television reported that the air defenses responded to "Israeli aggression" in central Syria. The Observatory said several missiles were intercepted.

The number of casualties and extent of damage were not immediately clear.

Israel has carried out several attacks in Syria in recent years, often targeting Iran-linked and Hezbollah positions.