Israel Strikes Near Damascus, Pledges Protection for Druze Community
In the early hours of Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel conducted an airstrike near the presidential palace in Damascus, Syria. The strike comes as part of Israel’s commitment to protect the Druze community, a minority group spread across Syria, Lebanon, and Israel.
“Israel struck last night near the presidential palace in Damascus,” Netanyahu said in a joint statement with Defense Minister Israel Katz. “This is a clear message to the Syrian regime: We will not allow forces to pose any threat to the Druze community.”
This marks the second time in recent days that Israel has targeted locations in Syria, following reports of sectarian violence against the Druze by armed groups earlier this week. The Druze, who practice a faith that is an offshoot of Islam, have faced increasing challenges amid the ongoing conflicts in the region.
The Israeli strikes highlight the country’s concerns over the safety of the Druze population and the potential threats posed by militant groups operating near its borders. Tensions in the area have been exacerbated by the complex dynamics of the Syrian conflict, involving various factions and international interests.
The Syrian government has yet to respond to the latest strikes. The situation adds pressure to efforts aimed at stabilizing the region and protecting minority communities caught in the crossfire.
