On July 16 and 17, Israel launched a series of powerful airstrikes targeting key military sites in Damascus, Syria. These rare and significant attacks represent one of the most notable escalations against the Syrian government since Bashar al-Assad’s ousting. The Israeli Defense Forces bombed the Syrian military headquarters, including areas near the presidential palace. Israel claims these strikes targeted forces responsible for attacking the Druze minority in southern Syria.
Response from Syrian Leadership
Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa sharply condemned the Israeli strikes, accusing Israel of seeking “chaos and destruction.” He highlighted that safeguarding the Druze community remains a top priority and extended gratitude to international mediators from the U.S., Arab nations, and Turkey. These mediators are working to restore calm in Sweida, where recent sectarian violence between Druze and Sunni militias has erupted.
Rising Sectarian Tensions and International Concerns
The escalations have raised global concerns due to the threat of intensifying sectarian violence. Over 300 people have been reported killed, with many more injured in recent clashes. Both the U.S. and the European Union have expressed worries about the worsening violence.
Israeli Position and Ongoing Diplomacy
Israeli officials affirm that the campaign aims to defend the Druze community amid ongoing unrest in southern Syria. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to ease tensions continue discreetly behind the scenes.
Stay tuned to Questiqa World News for further updates.
About The Author
