Israel attacks Syria on Wednesday, launching powerful airstrikes on the capital Damascus. At least three people were killed and over 30 injured, according to Syrian health officials. Israel claimed the strikes were carried out to protect the Druze minority, which has been clashing with Syrian forces in the southern region of Suwayda.
Syria condemned the strikes as a dangerous act of aggression. Government buildings, including the Ministry of Defense and areas near the presidential palace, were targeted. A Syrian TV broadcast showed live footage of the Defense Ministry being hit, forcing the anchor to take cover on air.
Israel attacks Syria under the guise of backing Druze community
The Israeli government said the attack was meant to support the Druze community, which it claims is under threat from extremist forces within the new Syrian administration. Israel’s Defense Minister called the strikes “painful blows,” while Prime Minister Netanyahu asked Druze citizens in Israel not to cross into Syria.
The Syrian government has accused Israel of trying to stir chaos and violate its sovereignty. It warned that Syria reserves the right to defend its territory under international law.
The situation on the ground remains unstable. Syria announced a ceasefire with Druze fighters, but some Druze leaders have rejected it. Heavy fighting continues in Suwayda, with electricity, water, and communication services disrupted in the area. Residents describe the conditions as “dire.”
Global reaction and US position
The United Nations and several regional powers have condemned Israel’s actions. The UN Secretary General called for a halt to all violence and violations of Syrian sovereignty. Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar also issued statements criticizing the Israeli strikes.
Israel attacked Syria despite warnings from the United States. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the Trump administration is working to end the conflict and called the recent strikes a “misunderstanding.” He added that the US expects all parties to follow through on peace commitments.
The latest escalation comes months after the fall of the Assad regime and ongoing unrest in Syria. The Druze community, caught between different armed groups, has demanded protection and autonomy.
With no clear end to the violence, the risk of wider regional conflict remains high. As Israel attacked Syria again under the banner of security, the world watches closely for what comes next.
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