Israel launched a series of large-scale airstrikes on the Syrian capital Damascus on July 16, causing heavy damage to the country's Ministry of Defense and hitting the area near the presidential palace.
The military actions were carried out with a statement protecting the Druze community in southern Syria, after Israel accused the Syrian government of attacking the ethnic minority group.
An Israeli military official said the strikes targeted a military headquarters in central Damascus and a target near the presidential palace, asserting that Israel would not allow the Druze to be slaughtered. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the country will continue to take strong military action in sweida until the Druze attack units completely retreat.
Thousands of people have been killed in sweida over the past week, according to reports from Syrian human rights groups and security sources. The fighting involved Druze fighters, Syrian government forces and armed Bedouin groups. Local residents described the scene of panic and fierce shelling, many of whom had to stay indoors to avoid casualties.
The Israeli military said it will continue airstrikes on " Syrian regime" targets in the south, including tanks and motorized vehicles moving towards sweida. The Syrian Ministry of Health confirmed that 13 people were injured in airstrikes in Damascus.
The Syrian government has blamed the illegal gangs for causing chaos, while Druze spiritual leaders have accused the government of brutally attacking their communities. Interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to protect minorities, despite facing a serious reputational crisis following the Alawite attacks in March.
Tensions escalated as dozens of Druzes in Israel crossed the border to meet relatives on the Syrian side. The Israeli military said it was working to bring them back safely. Meanwhile, US special missionary to Syria, Mr. Tom Barrack, called on all parties to restrain and promote dialogue towards a sustainable ceasefire. He also emphasized the need to hold all parties involved in the violence accountable.
The Syrian Defense Ministry has urged people not to leave their homes. Some witnesses said they saw government forces looting and burning down people's houses.
