Israel has launched major military strikes on Syrian targets in Damascus and southern Syria as sectarian fighting between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes intensifies in Suweida province. Over 300 people have died since the violence erupted on Sunday, including fighters, civilians, and government forces. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strikes aim to protect Syria’s Druze population, citing Israel’s close ties with Druze communities in Israel and the occupied Golan Heights.
The Israeli military targeted Syria’s defence ministry, weapons convoys, and even areas near the presidential palace. Damascus has condemned the strikes as “treacherous aggression” and a violation of international law, claiming civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. The humanitarian situation in Suweida is rapidly deteriorating, with hospitals overwhelmed, critical shortages reported, and civilians caught in the crossfire.
Clashes reportedly began after the abduction of a Druze merchant, sparking widespread violence between communities. Armed Druze fighters seized a Bedouin neighbourhood in Suweida, and retaliatory attacks followed. In response, Syrian troops were deployed, only to later withdraw following a ceasefire deal involving religious leaders.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern, saying an agreement was reached to end the violence. Interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa promised accountability and accused Israel of aiming for regime change. He also vowed to protect minority groups like the Druze, though mistrust persists after repeated sectarian unrest.
Israel has a history of striking inside Syria to prevent hostile groups from gaining power, particularly Sunni Islamist factions like HTS, which Netanyahu called a threat. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise in a region already devastated by years of conflict.
