On Friday morning, Israel’s air force conducted a strike near Syria’s presidential palace in Damascus, following warnings to Syrian authorities about advancing towards Druze-inhabited villages in the region. The attack occurred amid escalating clashes between pro-government forces and members of the Druze minority sect, resulting in numerous casualties. The Israeli military confirmed that its fighter jets targeted an area adjacent to the palace of President Hussein al-Sharaa, although additional details were not provided.
Syrian state media reported that the strike hit near the People’s Palace, situated on a hill overlooking the city. The Druze community, which began as a 10th-century offshoot of Ismailism—a branch of Shiite Islam—comprises a significant minority in Syria. There are about one million Druze globally, with a majority residing in Syria, alongside populations in Lebanon and Israel, particularly in the Golan Heights, territory Israel captured during the 1967 Middle East War and later annexed in 1981. In Syria, the Druze primarily inhabit the southern province of Sweida and some areas in Damascus suburbs.
The recent violence has raised tensions in the area, illustrating the complex dynamics between various factions in Syria, especially amid ongoing civil unrest. Israel’s actions appear aimed at preventing further destabilization near its borders, particularly involving the Druze, a group that has historically maintained a delicate balance in a region rife with conflict.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
