Context:

Israeli airstrikes on Damascus, which damaged parts of the Ministry of Defense building, have been condemned by Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara, who accused Israel of seeking to destabilize the country. The strikes followed intense sectarian clashes in Sweida between Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druse militias, resulting in over 500 deaths and prompting fears of broader conflict. Israel's intervention was positioned as a protective measure for the Druse minority, with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz threatening further military action unless Syrian forces withdrew from Sweida. A ceasefire was brokered with international mediation, handing security responsibilities in Sweida to local factions, though its longevity remains uncertain. Syrian and Druse leaders emphasized accountability for violence and appealed for restraint amid ongoing tensions and reports of human rights violations.

Dive Deeper:

• President Ahmed al-Shara of Syria criticized Israeli airstrikes on Damascus, accusing Israel of escalating tensions and destabilizing the country following sectarian clashes in Sweida that left over 500 dead.

• Sectarian violence in Sweida erupted between Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druse militias, leading to the Syrian government's military intervention, which was met with mistrust and resistance by Druse leaders fearing attacks.

• Israel intervened in the conflict citing protection of the Druse minority, with its defense minister threatening further strikes unless Syrian forces withdrew from Sweida, marking a significant escalation in military actions.

• International mediation, including from the United States, facilitated a ceasefire in Sweida, transferring security responsibilities to local factions, although the ceasefire's stability remains in question.

• The violence has drawn attention to serious allegations of human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and looting, prompting calls for restraint and protection of civilians from both Syrian and Druse leaders.