Israel's airstrikes in Syria's capital, aimed at the Defense Ministry and nearby areas, coincide with intense clashes in the southern province of Sweida, primarily affecting the Druse minority. The situation remains fluid as violence continues despite a cease-fire announcement.
Escalating Tensions: Israel Strikes Syrian Capital Amid Violence in Sweida
Escalating Tensions: Israel Strikes Syrian Capital Amid Violence in Sweida
Recent airstrikes by Israel in Damascus target military sites as clashes between government forces and the Druse minority escalate, raising regional concerns.
Israel conducted airstrikes in the Syrian capital of Damascus on Wednesday, targeting significant military sites, including the Defense Ministry and an area close to the presidential palace. This action was reported by both Syrian authorities and a monitoring organization, as tensions mounted regarding the treatment of the Druse minority in the southern province of Sweida.
Israeli defense officials have expressed concern over the Syrian government's military activities in Sweida, warning that they are closely observing the situation. Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, stated that if the Syrian military did not withdraw from the area, further strikes could be imminent. The ongoing conflict in Sweida has already resulted in over 200 fatalities over four days, marking it as one of the deadliest periods of unrest in recent years.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an organization based in the United Kingdom that monitors the Syrian conflict, indicated that the Israeli airstrikes caused significant damage and reported at least nine injuries, as stated by the Syrian health ministry.
Despite a cease-fire that was declared just a day prior, violence resumed on Wednesday between government troops and Druse fighters, suggesting that the cease-fire may not hold in the face of ongoing tensions. The unfolding situation continues to raise alarm in the region as both local and international observers await further developments.
