Israel has launched airstrikes targeting Syria’s Ministry of Defense in the capital, Damascus, and government facilities in the southern region. According to BBC reports, at least three people were killed and over 30 others were injured in the attack.
Israel Cites Protection of Druze Community
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed the airstrikes were aimed at protecting the Druze community in Syria and dismantling armed militias in the region.
Recent weeks have seen increasing sectarian violence between the Druze and Bedouin tribal groups in Syria. The conflict has reportedly claimed around 300 lives, prompting Israel’s military intervention under the stated motive of protecting civilians.
Israeli Army Statement
Israeli Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir said after the strike:
“We are taking decisive action to prevent a permanent enemy presence across our borders, to protect Israeli citizens, and to shield the Druze community from harm.”
The Druze Community in Syria
The Druze, a religious minority, are primarily located in southern Syria’s Suwayda region, and also have populations in Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan. In Syria, they have organized for self-defense and regional security, often resisting government oppression, corruption, and military coercion.
Israel has long maintained strategic ties with its Druze population, which exceeds 100,000 citizens, many of whom serve in the Israeli Defense Forces. This relationship is seen as a key reason behind Israel’s support for Druze fighters in Syria.
Druze militias have reportedly formed under various names to protect their communities from threats posed by ISIS and other extremist factions.
Syria Condemns Attack, US Calls for Peace
The Syrian government has condemned Israel’s actions, calling the airstrikes a “deceptive and aggressive move.”
Meanwhile, the United States has expressed hope that the violence will de-escalate soon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict and shared on X (formerly Twitter) that diplomatic efforts are underway to restore peace.
Syria has responded positively to the U.S. initiative, welcoming its peaceful resolution efforts.
