In a strong warning, Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israel would take significant military action if Syria’s Islamist-led government fails to safeguard the Druze minority amidst escalating sectarian violence near Damascus. This statement follows two days of intense clashes that have resulted in the deaths of at least 101 individuals, predominantly Druze fighters, according to a war monitoring organization.
Katz emphasized the seriousness of the situation, declaring that if assaults against the Druze continue and the Syrian regime neglects to intervene, Israel’s response would be forceful. This declaration marks an increase in Israel’s engagement with the Druze community in Syria, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also calling upon the international community to protect minority groups, particularly the Druze, from the threats posed by the Syrian government and affiliated militias.
Recent events escalated when Israel conducted a military strike targeting an “extremist group” believed to be planning attacks on Druze community members near Damascus. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted that the strike in Sahnaya serves as a clear warning to Syria’s government regarding the ongoing violence against minorities.
The Israeli military has further heightened its defensive posture, with commanders instructing force readiness to target Syrian government assets should the situation for the Druze deteriorate further. As part of its humanitarian efforts, the Israeli military reported the evacuation of two injured Druze from Syria for medical treatment, following the previous rescue of three individuals the day before. The military did not disclose the specifics of their injuries but confirmed they were treated in Safed, a northern Israeli town.
In preparation for potential conflicts, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is currently positioned in southern Syria, strategically ready to prevent any hostile forces from encroaching upon the Druze villages. This proactive stance reflects Israel’s commitment to protecting the Druze and responding decisively to threats against them.
