**Israel's military strikes have led to tensions in the Druze region as sectarian clashes escalate, leaving dozens dead.**
**Israeli Airstrikes Target Syrian Forces Amid Sectarian Violence in Suweida**
**Israeli Airstrikes Target Syrian Forces Amid Sectarian Violence in Suweida**
**Ceasefire Announced as Israel Intervenes in Deadly Druze-Bedouin Clashes in Syria**
Israel has launched airstrikes against Syrian government forces in the city of Suweida, following two days of violent sectarian clashes that have resulted in significant casualties. At least 200 lives have been lost as fighting erupted between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the strikes were aimed at preventing the use of military resources against the Druze population, as Syrian forces moved into the area after Islamist-led opposition had initially overthrown President Bashar al-Assad.
The situation escalated after Syrian Defence Minister Maj. Gen. Murhaf Abu Qasra declared a ceasefire on Tuesday. The high-profile deployment marks the return of Syrian military presence in the city, which had been largely under Druze militia control until now. The response from the Syrian government condemned Israel's involvement and affirmed responsibility for the repercussions of the strikes.
The recent clashes reportedly began due to the abduction of a Druze merchant, igniting tensions that spread throughout the region. Distrust towards the interim government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa has grown among minority communities like the Druze, who fear potential reprisals. Activist reports indicated ongoing violence despite the ceasefire announcement, with accusations that Syrian forces engaged in summary executions and vandalism of civilian properties.
Local Druze leaders have called for resistance against what they characterize as brutal military action by government forces, as they seek to protect their communities from violence and ensure their safety amidst a backdrop of instability. The Israeli military, criticizing the Syrian regime's actions, emphasized its commitment to preventing harm against the Druze, especially given their strong cultural ties to the Druze community in Israel and the Golan Heights.
The ramifications of this conflict could escalate if tensions continue to rise between the Druze and Bedouin communities, leading to broader unrest in the already volatile region.
