The Israeli military, closely monitoring Syrian actions, warned of intensified measures against forces threatening the Druse community—the situation unfolds against a backdrop of civilian unrest and international concern.
Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria's capital, targeting the Defense Ministry and an adjacent area near the presidential palace on Wednesday, as reported by Syrian authorities and a war monitoring group. The strikes were in direct response to escalating violence in the southern province of Sweida, where the Druse minority has been facing intense clashes with government forces. Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, emphasized that Israel is prepared to step up military action unless Syrian forces withdraw from the region, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding the Druse population.
Reports indicate that the violent skirmishes have claimed over 200 lives in just four days, marking one of the deadliest periods in recent years according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Following the airstrikes, which the observatory described as having caused "extensive" damage, at least nine individuals were recorded as injured according to the Syrian health ministry.
Despite a cease-fire being declared in Sweida just a day prior, hostilities reignited on Wednesday as clashes re-emerged between government troops and Druse fighters. The deteriorating situation calls for urgent international attention to ensure the safety and stability of the affected communities.
Euan Ward, a reporter with insight into the region, continues to provide updates on the unfolding crisis from Beirut, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable resolution.
Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria's capital, targeting the Defense Ministry and an adjacent area near the presidential palace on Wednesday, as reported by Syrian authorities and a war monitoring group. The strikes were in direct response to escalating violence in the southern province of Sweida, where the Druse minority has been facing intense clashes with government forces. Israeli Defense Minister, Israel Katz, emphasized that Israel is prepared to step up military action unless Syrian forces withdraw from the region, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding the Druse population.
Reports indicate that the violent skirmishes have claimed over 200 lives in just four days, marking one of the deadliest periods in recent years according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. Following the airstrikes, which the observatory described as having caused "extensive" damage, at least nine individuals were recorded as injured according to the Syrian health ministry.
Despite a cease-fire being declared in Sweida just a day prior, hostilities reignited on Wednesday as clashes re-emerged between government troops and Druse fighters. The deteriorating situation calls for urgent international attention to ensure the safety and stability of the affected communities.
Euan Ward, a reporter with insight into the region, continues to provide updates on the unfolding crisis from Beirut, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable resolution.
