Israel launched strikes on Wednesday targeting areas near the Syrian Presidential Palace, military headquarters, and the Defence Ministry in Damascus. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated these actions were in response to the Syrian regime’s actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria, following the collapse of a local ceasefire. The IDF announced on X that it struck the entrance of the Syrian regime’s military headquarters in Damascus, continuing to monitor developments and the regime’s actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also addressed the situation, urging Israeli Druze citizens not to cross the border, citing safety concerns and the need for the IDF to operate without hindrance. At least 248 people have reportedly died in recent days of ethnic violence between the Druze and Bedouins, with Syrian government forces allegedly siding with the Sunni Bedouins. Israeli Druze breached the border earlier near the Syrian village of Khader to assist their kin. Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of Israel’s Druze community, criticized the Israeli government and military for allegedly failing to protect Druze civilians across the border. The IDF has since increased its presence at the border, anticipating further breaches and protests.
