The Israeli military has launched airstrikes near Syria's presidential palace in Damascus, sending a strong message to the Syrian government. The strikes, carried out by Israel's air force, targeted areas adjacent to the Palace of President Hussein al-Sharaa.
*Background of the Strikes*
The airstrikes come after warnings from Israel to Syrian authorities not to advance toward Druze-populated villages in the south. The Druze community, a minority sect with deep roots in Syria, has faced intense fighting with pro-government forces near Damascus, resulting in dozens of casualties.
*Reasons Behind the Strikes*
Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the strike was a message to Syrian leaders, emphasizing their commitment to protecting the Druze community. The Israeli government will not allow any danger to the Druze community or withdrawal of forces from south of Damascus.
*Casualties and Reactions*
The clashes between pro-government forces and Druze fighters broke out after an audio clip criticizing Islam's Prophet Muhammad circulated on social media, attributed to a Druze cleric. However, the cleric denied responsibility, which angered many Sunni Muslims. According to reports, 11 security personnel were killed in two separate attacks, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported 56 people were killed in clashes ¹ ².
*Significance of the Druze Community*
The Druze community is a significant minority group in Syria, with over half of the global Druze population residing in the country, primarily in the southern Sweida province and areas around Damascus. Notable Druze populations also live in Lebanon and Israel, including in the Golan Heights ¹.
