Netanyahu vows continued military action in southern Syria if needed

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will continue using military force to enforce two red lines in Syria: keeping the area south of Damascus demilitarized and protecting the Druze minority. He accused the Syrian government of violating these by sending troops into the demilitarized zone and attacking Druze communities. Following escalating violence in Sweida, involving Druze fighters, government forces, and Bedouin militias, Israel launched airstrikes on Damascus and Sweida to protect the Druze. A fragile ceasefire was brokered after mediation efforts, with Syrian government troops withdrawing, though clashes and airstrikes reportedly continue. The international community, including 11 Arab nations and the U.S., condemned Israel’s strikes, citing threats to Syria’s sovereignty and civilian safety. The week’s violence has killed nearly 600 people and worsened humanitarian conditions in the region.

Credit: CGTN