Escalating Violence and Military Strikes in Syria Amid Sectarian Tensions
Amid rising tensions in Syria, significant violence has erupted particularly concerning the Druze community, prompting Israel to carry out multiple airstrikes around Damascus, including near the presidential palace. Israeli officials have stated that these strikes were aimed at groups threatening Druze fighters, following deadly clashes in the region that have led to a sharp rise in fatalities. The Syrian Druze leader has condemned the government for ongoing sectarian violence, describing the attacks on the Druze as genocidal. As fears grow within the Druze community, calls for international intervention have intensified. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has emphasized the necessity for immediate action to protect the Druze minority, warning of potential massacres if the violence continues. The situation remains volatile as both military actions and sectarian conflicts escalate in the region.
U.S. Department of State (.gov), NBC News, Bloomberg.com, The Guardian, The New York Times, BBC, The Times of Israel, CNN, Al Jazeera, WSJ