Syria army headquarters bombed by Israel following warning to withdraw from Druze region
In a series of escalating events, Israel has bombed the Syrian army's headquarters in Damascus, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict that intertwines with the Druze minority's struggle and the broader Syrian civil war.
The Druze, an Arabic-speaking religious minority with a unique faith derived from Shia Islam, hold cultural and historical significance in Syria, particularly in the Suwayda region. Approximately 3% of Syria's population is Druze, and they have been caught in the crossfire of the conflict, leading to a wave of violence that has claimed over 350 lives in a short period.
Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, has threatened Syrian forces to withdraw from the Suwayda area, framing the strikes as protection for the Druze community. The strikes on Damascus and Suwayda were part of this effort, with Israel claiming to target military infrastructure.
The Syrian government has condemned the attacks as a violation of sovereignty. U.S. intelligence suggested no Syrian government involvement in atrocities against the Druze, but noted that Israeli actions were influenced by domestic political pressure from the Druze community in Israel.
The conflict in southern Syria exacerbates regional instability, with the Druze minority's struggles being part of broader sectarian tensions and local grievances that fuel unrest in the region. The head of the Druze community in Israel, Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, described the situation as an "existential battle for the Druze community."
Turkey has also condemned Israel's attacks on Damascus, stating they constitute an act of sabotage against Syria's efforts to secure peace, stability, and security. The United States, France, and the European Union have expressed concern and called for an end to the abuses targeting civilians in Syria.
As the conflict continues, Israel is sending more troops to the armistice line between the occupied Golan Heights and Syrian-controlled territory. Meanwhile, dozens of people are crossing the heavily fortified Golan frontier, seeking refuge in the Israeli-annexed area.
This complex and volatile situation underscores the need for diplomatic efforts to bring peace and stability to the region, protect civilians, and address the root causes of the conflict.
Human rights advocates are raising concerns about the safety of the Druze minority, as Israel's strikes in Damascus and Suwayda have intensified the ongoing war-and-conflicts in southern Syria. In the wake of these events, politics within Israel and Syria, as well as general-news outlets, are focusing on the Druze community's struggle for survival.
