Israel has conducted airstrikes near the presidential palace in Damascus, Syria, amid rising tensions and violence in the region’s Druze areas. This action comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to safeguard the Druze community following several days of deadly sectarian clashes.
The Israeli military reported that its jets targeted an area adjacent to the palace, sending a strong message to the Syrian government. Netanyahu stated that Israel would not tolerate any threats to the Druze, who are a religious minority in Syria. He emphasized the need for protection against forces that could harm this community.
In response, the Syrian presidency condemned the airstrike, labeling it a dangerous escalation that threatens to destabilize the country. They called for international support to confront these attacks, which they claim violate Syria’s sovereignty.
The recent violence began in Jaramana, a town near Damascus, after a controversial audio clip circulated online. The clip, which insulted the Prophet Muhammad, angered many Sunni Muslims and was attributed to a Druze cleric. This sparked clashes that have resulted in numerous casualties, including both Druze civilians and fighters.
According to reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, at least 109 people have died in the violence, including 11 Druze civilians and 30 members of the security forces. The situation remains tense, with Syrian security forces deployed to restore order and combat what they describe as outlaw groups.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also criticized the Israeli airstrike, calling it a violation of Syria’s sovereignty and urging Israel to cease such actions. Meanwhile, Druze leaders have called for international intervention to protect their community from ongoing violence.
The Druze population, which makes up about 3% of Syria’s population, has faced increasing threats in the wake of the civil war. With the new security forces in place, there are growing fears among minority communities about their safety and future.
Israel has previously expressed its commitment to protecting the Druze and has warned against any threats to their well-being. As the situation continues to evolve, both local and international observers are closely monitoring developments in this volatile region.