Israel Targets Syrian Palace Amid Druze Violence Escalation

Israeli jets bombed an area near the presidential palace in Syria, signaling support for the Druze religious minority amid deadly sectarian violence, which has seen over 100 casualties.

In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Israel's fighter jets have reportedly targeted an area adjacent to the presidential palace in Damascus as tensions mount in Syria's Druze regions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu articulated that this military action serves as a decisive message to the Syrian regime, emphasizing Israel's commitment to safeguarding the Druze community amidst days of intense sectarian violence.

Netanyahu asserted that Israel would “not allow the deployment of forces south of Damascus or any threat to the Druze community.” Following the Israeli airstrike, the Syrian government did not issue a direct response but has consistently condemned foreign military involvement, specifically following Israel's previous strikes during ongoing violence between Druze gunmen and allied Sunni Islamist forces.

Significantly, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, a prominent Druze spiritual leader, condemned the violence targeting his community as a “genocidal campaign,” urging international intervention to assure peace. Meanwhile, other Druze leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a unified Syria, free from strife, as they called for greater stability along crucial routes, including the Suweida-Damascus highway.

The Syrian government has ramped up its military presence in Druze areas, attributing the clashes to “outlaw groups” and asserting that any call for foreign intervention could exacerbate the situation. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that at least 102 individuals have lost their lives in violence this week, including 10 Druze civilians and numerous fighters from both sides.

The unrest began after a controversial audio clip related to religious sentiments circulated on social media, igniting tension between Sunni Muslims and Druze, who represent about 3% of Syria's population. Recent violent incidents reflect the broader fears among minority communities in Syria, exacerbated by past attacks and ongoing conflicts.

In response to these developments, Netanyahu has reiterated Israel’s stance against threats to the Druze community, particularly from Syria's new security forces, which have been linked to extremist groups. The Israeli military has been proactive in its defense strategy, conducting numerous airstrikes in Syria aimed at countering perceived threats, particularly in southern regions bordering Israel.