Israel Strikes Near Damascus to Protect Druze as Sectarian Violence Escalates
by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent
(Worthy News) – Israel carried out an airstrike near Damascus on Wednesday, targeting what it called an extremist group plotting an attack on Syria’s Druze community. Describing it as a “warning operation,” Israel said the strike aimed to prevent further sectarian violence amid rising tensions in the region.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the strike occurred in Sahnaya, a town near Damascus, and was aimed at preventing further attacks on the Druze minority. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that Israel expects the Syrian regime to take action to protect the Druze community.
Following deadly clashes in the Druze suburb of Jaramana that left at least 13 dead, including Syrian security personnel, the IDF said Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir ordered preparations for further strikes on regime targets if attacks on the Druze continue.
The unrest reportedly began after a Druze man was heard insulting the Prophet Muhammad, triggering retaliation by Sunni gunmen.
Druze protesters in Israel blocked roads in the Galilee on Wednesday, urging government action to protect their community in Syria.
Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the Druze spiritual leader in Israel, warned, “Israel must not stand by in the face of events unfolding as we speak.” Israel has reaffirmed its commitment to the Druze, citing deep historical and familial ties.
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