Israel has intensified its military operations in Syria, launching airstrikes on Damascus that reportedly struck key government facilities, including a compound linked to the Defense Ministry and an area near the presidential palace. The Israeli military claims these strikes were a response to violent clashes between Syrian government forces and local militias in Sweida, the primary region of the Druse minority, which has been a point of concern for Israel.
In the hours following these airstrikes, Syrian authorities announced they had negotiated a ceasefire with local leaders in Sweida. However, responses from the U.S. government indicate that while diplomatic channels are being explored, the violence continues unabated. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the U.S. was involved in discussions with all parties to resolve the matter. Despite these talks, further Israeli strikes on military targets in Damascus were confirmed later in the evening.
Israel's military strategy seems to focus on two primary objectives: preventing Iranian-backed militias and aggressive Islamist groups from gaining footholds close to its borders and addressing the security concerns of the Druse community, who have historically had close ties to the Israeli government. The situation remains fluid as the implications of these strikes unfold in the broader context of regional stability.
