Israel Launches Airstrikes Amid Rising Sectarian Tensions in Syria

In response to escalating clashes between pro-government forces and Druse militias, Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria, reportedly aimed at “operatives” involved in violence against Druse civilians. This intervention followed significant casualties in the region.

In a dramatic escalation of tensions, the Israeli military launched airstrikes in Syria on April 30, 2025, in response to ongoing sectarian violence that has erupted in areas predominantly inhabited by the Druse minority, particularly near Damascus. The Israeli forces targeted individuals described as "operatives" implicated in attacks against Druse civilians, amid clashes that have resulted in significant fatalities.

The Syrian governor, Amr al-Sheikh, confirmed that the airstrikes had resulted in at least two deaths—one member of the Syrian government's general security forces and a civilian. The Israeli military had previously indicated that its rockets would target any extremist groups dominating the carry-out violent acts against the Druse community.

According to reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring organization, at least 39 individuals had been killed in the clashes over two days, with 22 fatalities occurring on the day of the airstrikes. The violence has been concentrated around Ashrafieh Sahnaya, a mainly Druse area situated south of the Syrian capital, indicating deepening sectarian divisions.

The tension arises from the longstanding conflict in Syria, where various groups have engaged in fighting since the civil war’s onset. The Druse community in Israel, loyal to the state, showed concern over their compatriots’ safety amidst the conflict. The situation underscores the fragile stability in the region and raises questions about further Israeli intervention in Syrian affairs as sectarian violence continues to spiral out of control.