Black smoke rises over a city with buildings and a mosque under a clear sky.
ISRAEL

Israel intensifies its operations in Syria in defense of the Druze minority

Israel bombed Syrian regime forces who were heading toward the city of Sweida, which has a Druze majority

In an unusual military action, Israel bombed Syrian regime forces heading toward the city of Sweida, which has a Druze majority, in southern Syria. The decision, announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, was made "after the attacks against the Druze" and in accordance with Israel's policy of preventing the militarization of southern Syria.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) struck several armored vehicles, including tanks and multiple rocket launchers, that were advancing toward Sweida. The city has been the scene of violent clashes between Bedouin clans and the local Druze community, resulting in nearly 100 deaths.

"Israel is committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep fraternal alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, and their historical and family ties with Syrian Druze", Netanyahu and Katz stated.

Several off-road vehicles drive down a street with armed men and trees in the background on a sunny day.
Syrian army soldiers | La Derecha Diario

Although Syria's current Islamist leadership had been seen by Jerusalem as a possible interlocutor, the fighting in Sweida and the entry of troops into the south of the country raised alarms. For Israel, the military presence in that region contradicts the existing demilitarization agreement and represents a direct threat.

The IDF described the operation as "exceptionally extensive," emphasizing Israel's commitment to the security of its border and the protection of persecuted minorities.

The interim Syrian government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa after the fall of Bashar al-Assad, faces growing criticism for possible abuses against non-Sunni communities.

Israel's intervention sends a clear message: Israel will not remain indifferent if the Druze community is endangered, nor will it allow Syrian chaos to approach its border.

➡️ Israel

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