Damascus, Syria — Israeli air strikes targeted key locations in the Syrian capital on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The strikes reportedly hit the Syrian Army General Command headquarters in Umayyad Square and areas near the al-Shaab presidential palace, according to local media and eyewitnesses.
The Israeli military conducted at least five air strikes, damaging parts of the General Command building and sending plumes of smoke over Damascus. Footage aired on local television showed smoke rising from the city center.
The attacks are said to be in response to recent clashes involving the Druze community in Sweida Province in southern Syria. Violence has intensified in the region, with deadly confrontations between local Druze militias, Bedouin tribes, and Syrian government forces.
Earlier on Wednesday, state-run Al-Ikhbariya TV confirmed that two civilians were injured in what it described as an “Israeli aggression” on military headquarters. There have been no immediate reports of casualties from the latest strikes, and official comments remain scarce.
Syrian government troops were dispatched to Sweida on Monday to quell fighting but reportedly ended up clashing with Druze fighters. News outlet Sweida24 reported heavy artillery and mortar fire in Sweida and nearby villages early on Wednesday.
A Syrian government statement vowed to hold those responsible for the unrest accountable, emphasizing its commitment to protecting the rights of the people in Sweida.
In response to the escalating conflict, Israel announced on Wednesday that it is reinforcing its military presence along the Syrian border. “In accordance with the situational assessment, the Israeli military has decided to reinforce its forces in the area of the Syrian border,” read an official statement.
The international community is watching closely as the situation develops, raising concerns about further instability in the region.
