Israel escalates military campaign to protect Druze in Syria
- Israel conducted airstrikes against Syrian military targets in Damascus, specifically aimed at protecting the Druze minority.
- The operations included strikes on the Ministry of Defense and other military compounds, resulting in numerous injuries.
- The situation remains tense as Israel commits to ongoing military action to keep the Druze community safe amidst escalating violence.
On July 16, 2025, Israel carried out a series of powerful airstrikes in Damascus, targeting sites associated with the Syrian military. These strikes were initiated as part of Israel's ongoing commitment to protect the Druze, an Arab minority, amidst escalating violence between Druze forces and Bedouin tribes in southern Syria. Incidents of violence over the weekend led to clashes that caught the attention of the Israeli government, prompting action to support the threatened Druze community. The Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that the military operations began with 'painful strikes' aimed specifically at Syrian government military compounds. Reports indicated that at least 13 people were injured during these airstrikes, which included significant targets near the presidential palace and the Ministry of Defense building. Video footage shared by Katz demonstrated the catastrophic impact of the strikes on live television, emphasizing the urgency of the situation and the Israeli government's determination to act. As attacks unfolded, Israel's actions drew international scrutiny. The United States expressed concern over the situation, urging Israel to cease its military interventions. However, officials in Israel, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar, asserted that the campaign was vital to ensure the safety of the Druze and to maintain security along the southern border. The Israeli Defense Forces responded to the rising tensions with a commitment to continue their operations in southern Syria, targeting forces that posed a direct threat to the Druze community, whether they be Syrian military units or Bedouin militias. This military escalation follows a pattern of Israeli airstrikes aimed at various targets in Syria, designed to deter threats from the Iranian military presence and protect allies in the region like the Druze. The ongoing conflict illustrates the complexities of regional dynamics in Syria, where multiple factions, including government forces and tribal groups, are vying for power and influence. Israel's intervention highlights not only its strategic interests but also its commitment to safeguarding populations it considers vulnerable amidst the upheaval in Syria.