Israel launched airstrikes near Syria’s Defense Ministry in Damascus on Wednesday, as fierce renewed clashes between Syrian government forces and Druze armed groups in Sweida province, shattering a brief ceasefire.
Government forces and Druze factions resumed fighting in southern Sweida city Wednesday, with Syria’s Defense Ministry claiming that armed groups violated Tuesday’s ceasefire, forcing soldiers to return fire. Military operations continue across the Druze-majority province as the army asserts its actions strictly follow rules of engagement to protect residents and enable safe returns.
Israel Expands Military Role
Meanwhile, the Israeli army confirmed striking targets near the Syrian Defense Ministry entrance, following multiple airstrikes against government convoys in southern Syria since the Sweida clashes began. Israeli forces also bolstered their presence along the border with Syria.
Defense Minister Israel Katz declared Wednesday, “The Israeli army will continue to attack regime forces until they withdraw from the area.” Katz threatened stronger responses soon if Damascus ignores the warning, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Tuesday that Israel feels a commitment to preserve southwestern Syria as a demilitarized border zone and an obligation to protect local Druze communities.
The current violence originated in tit-for-tat attacks between local Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druze factions within Sweida. Government troops intervened but also clashed directly with Druze groups with reports now alleging that security forces committed extrajudicial killings, looting, and home burnings.
Syria’s Interior Ministry reported 30 deaths by Monday. However, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimates over 250 fatalities by Wednesday morning, including civilians and 138 soldiers/security personnel; the monitor alleges at least 21 “field executions.”
Druze Caught in Conflict
Over half of the global Druze population, roughly one million people, live in Syria, with Israel considering its own Druze citizens a loyal minority, many serving in the military. Druze in Syria remain divided regarding the post-Assad government, with some seeking integration and others demanding autonomy.
Israel maintains an aggressive stance towards Syria’s current rulers, citing security concerns about Islamist militants near its borders. Since Bashar Assad’s ouster ending the 14-year civil war, Israel seized a UN-patrolled buffer zone and conducted hundreds of strikes inside Syria.
