Israeli attacks kill two more as Syria government reaches deal with Druze

Sat May 03 15:45:06 UTC 2025: ## Israel Launches Air Strikes in Syria, Citing Druze Protection; Syria Rejects Claim

**DAMASCUS, SYRIA** – Israel launched a series of overnight air strikes across Syria, targeting military sites and air defense infrastructure, resulting in at least two civilian deaths and eight injuries. The Israeli military justified the attacks as necessary to protect the Druze minority from alleged government violence. However, this claim is vehemently rejected by the Syrian Druze community itself.

Following days of clashes between pro-government forces and Druze fighters in the Damascus suburbs, which left over 100 dead, Israel carried out at least 15 air raids, including strikes near the presidential palace. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel would not tolerate Syrian forces south of Damascus or any perceived threat to the Druze population.

While an uneasy calm has settled in Jaramana following the clashes, Al Jazeera reports that the Syrian government and Druze leaders have reached agreements to increase security in Damascus and the Suwayda province, with a local defense force assuming responsibility. However, concerns remain about rogue elements seeking to destabilize the country through sectarian tensions.

The Druze community itself has expressed skepticism about Israel’s stated motives, highlighting their own mistreatment at the hands of the Israeli government and questioning the timing and nature of the intervention. They assert their ability to manage internal issues without Israeli interference.

International condemnation of the Israeli actions is mounting. The UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, strongly condemned the “continued and escalating violations of Syria’s sovereignty.” Despite the ongoing attacks and international pressure, Syrian security forces maintain their commitment to protecting their people. Syrian residents interviewed expressed relief at the agreements reached between the government and Druze leaders and dismissed Israeli intervention as unhelpful.

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