Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reinforced Israel's commitment to protecting the Druze minority by ordering airstrikes in Syria following severe sectarian violence. The Israeli military's actions come amidst escalating tensions and casualties in the region.
Israel Launches Airstrikes Near Syrian Presidential Palace Amid Druze Community Violence
Israel Launches Airstrikes Near Syrian Presidential Palace Amid Druze Community Violence
In response to recent sectarian clashes involving the Druze community, Israel conducted airstrikes near Damascus, sending a clear warning to the Syrian regime.
Israel escalated its military response in Syria by bombarding areas adjacent to the presidential palace in Damascus, a move deemed necessary following intense sectarian violence targeting the Druze community. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the airstrikes serve as a "clear message" to the Syrian regime, indicating Israel's determination to prevent any military presence that endangers the Druze population.
The Syrian government has yet to respond to the airstrikes; however, it has been vocal against what it labels as "foreign intervention" during recent clashes between Druze militia, state security forces, and aligned Sunni fighters. The violence reportedly erupted after tensions flared over a disparaging audio clip about the Prophet Muhammad, sparking outrage among Sunni Muslims and leading to widespread conflict.
In a powerful condemnation, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, a prominent Druze figure, described the ongoing violence as an "unjustifiable genocidal campaign" directed at his community, calling for the involvement of international forces to stabilize the situation. Other Druze leaders echoed these sentiments in a joint statement, advocating for a unified Syria devoid of strife and asserting their commitment to the nation.
The Syrian government claims it is deploying security forces in Druze regions to repress "outlaw groups" said to be instigating violence. Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani cautioned against external interference, arguing it would exacerbate division and turmoil within the country.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported alarming casualty figures from the recent violence, with over 100 fatalities, including numerous Druze civilians and fighters. The situation illustrates the terrifying potential for expanded unrest across the country.
The sect of the Druze, a minority group, forms approximately 3% of Syria's population, with half a million individuals currently residing in the nation. Historically, the Druze community has maintained a distinct identity within the context of the broader Islamic faith.
Previously, transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa assured protective measures for Syria's varied religious and ethnic minorities post-civil war. Nonetheless, the outbreak of violence in Druze areas and the mass killings of Alawite civilians have intensified apprehensions among minority groups regarding their safety and future.
In light of recent developments, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would not allow any threats against the Druze minority or permit the militarization of southern Syria, indicating the strategic calculations influencing Israel's military operations in the region.
