Israel conducted airstrikes on the entrance of Syria’s military headquarters in Damascus, reacting to intensified sectarian clashes in the Druze-majority Sweida region. These strikes targeted the Defense Ministry and areas near the presidential palace, as part of a broader campaign to protect Druze civilians amid escalating violence.

Clashes in Sweida resumed after a ceasefire collapsed between Syrian government forces and Druze militias fighting Bedouin tribes. Syrian troops had been blamed for abuses including shelling, looting, and summary executions of Druze residents. Reports suggest approximately 50 people were killed across four days of conflict. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz affirmed that strikes would continue until government forces withdraw from the south.

This military escalation marks Israel’s most significant intervention since Syria’s transitional government, formed after the ousting of Bashar al‑Assad in December 2024, took power under interim President Ahmed al‑Sharaa. Israel justifies its actions by citing its responsibility to shield Druze communities, citing concerns that Syrian forces are complicit in Druze-targeted violence. The international community—including the U.S., Turkey, and Arab states—has urged de-escalation and civilian protection.