Israel's air force struck targets near Syria's presidential palace as a strong warning to the Syrian government concerning attacks on the Druze minority. This military action followed violent clashes in Damascus attributed to a controversial audio clip involving a Druze cleric. Israeli officials emphasized their commitment to safeguarding the Druze community, while Syrian media condemned the intervention. The Druze's spiritual leader reiterated their loyalty to Syria, underscoring a desire for national unity. This marked Israel's second intervention in Syria within a week amidst escalating tensions and casualties in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Israel Katz stated, 'This is a clear message to the Syrian regime. We will not allow a withdrawal of forces from south of Damascus or any danger to the Druze community.'
Following the Israeli strikes, the Syrian government decried what it termed 'foreign intervention' while the Druze leadership affirmed, 'We confirm our commitment to a country that includes all Syrians, a nation that is free of strife.'
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