In a deeply complex situation, Israel has conducted airstrikes on Syrian government forces entering Suweida city, which has been at the epicenter of violent clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes.
Israel Strikes Syrian Forces Amid Sectarian Conflict in Druze City
Israel Strikes Syrian Forces Amid Sectarian Conflict in Druze City
Violence escalates in Suweida as Israel intervenes to protect Druze community.
The situation intensified on Tuesday when Syria's defense minister announced a ceasefire, coinciding with government forces' deployment in a predominantly Druze area that has recently seen significant bloodshed. Reports indicate that approximately 100 individuals have died following clashes that erupted on Sunday between the Druze community and Bedouin factions. Despite the announcement of the ceasefire, tensions remained high, as a prominent Druze spiritual leader called on local fighters to resist any further incursions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that he authorized targeted strikes on Syrian forces in the Suweida region, citing concerns that the government intended to utilize these forces against the Druze population. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's longstanding commitment to safeguarding the Druze people, who have familial and cultural ties within the Israeli and Golan Heights borders.
Notably, this aerial assault marks the initial involvement of Syrian government troops in Suweida since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December, a period that saw the province maintained under the control of Druze militia groups resisting integration into government forces. Despite assurances from new leaders regarding protection, minority communities harbor deep skepticism toward their intentions, escalating the risk of further violence in the area.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that he authorized targeted strikes on Syrian forces in the Suweida region, citing concerns that the government intended to utilize these forces against the Druze population. Netanyahu emphasized Israel's longstanding commitment to safeguarding the Druze people, who have familial and cultural ties within the Israeli and Golan Heights borders.
Notably, this aerial assault marks the initial involvement of Syrian government troops in Suweida since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad in December, a period that saw the province maintained under the control of Druze militia groups resisting integration into government forces. Despite assurances from new leaders regarding protection, minority communities harbor deep skepticism toward their intentions, escalating the risk of further violence in the area.
