• Israel launched airstrikes in Syria, claiming it was a message to the Syrian government to protect the Druze minority from ongoing sectarian violence.
• Syrian state media reported casualties, including civilians, as a result of the Israeli airstrikes, which targeted areas near Damascus, Hama, and Deraa.
• Druze leaders have given mixed reactions, some rebuffing Israeli protection, while others have requested international intervention amidst escalating violence.

Israeli warplanes have carried out a series of airstrikes in Syria, targeting military sites and other locations near Damascus and in other regions. Israel has justified these strikes as necessary to protect the Druze minority in Syria, who are facing increased violence and instability following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime. The Syrian government has condemned the attacks as a violation of its sovereignty, raising concerns about escalating tensions and regional stability. Some Druze leaders have rejected Israeli intervention, while others have called for international protection.

• What: Israeli warplanes launched airstrikes targeting military sites and other locations in Syria, which Israel claims are aimed at protecting the Druze minority.
• Who: Key actors include the Israeli government and military, the Syrian government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, the Druze community, and international bodies like the UN.
• When: The airstrikes occurred on May 2, 2025, following a week of heightened tensions and violence.
• Where: The strikes targeted areas near Damascus, Hama, and Deraa in Syria.

The Israeli airstrikes in Syria represent a complex geopolitical situation. Israel claims its actions are aimed at protecting the Druze minority from sectarian violence and preventing hostile forces from gaining control in southern Syria. However, the strikes are viewed by the Syrian government as a violation of sovereignty and have been condemned by some international bodies. The internal divisions within the Druze community, with some leaders rejecting Israeli protection and others calling for international intervention, further complicate the situation. The long-term impacts of these strikes on regional stability remain uncertain.

We will not allow the deployment of forces south of Damascus or any threat to the Druze community.

a dangerous escalation against state institutions and its sovereignty

The Israeli attacks on Syria are absolutely unacceptable. There is nothing in international law that allows for pre-emptive bombing.

The Israeli airstrikes in Syria have not only destabilized the region further but also risk igniting a wider conflict, with potentially catastrophic consequences. While Israel asserts its actions are to protect the Druze minority from attacks by extremist groups, the strikes are viewed by the Syrian government as a violation of sovereignty and an act of aggression. This has led to increased tensions and condemnation from other nations, including Türkiye. The strikes have also been criticized by UN officials who say that the actions are contributing to instability and threatening regional peace and security. The situation is further complicated by internal divisions within the Druze community and the rise of sectarian violence since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, with some Druze taking up arms to defend their communities. The new Syrian government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is struggling to maintain order and protect minorities, leading to calls for international intervention. However, many Druze leaders reject foreign intervention, emphasizing their desire to remain part of a unified Syria. The long-term impact of these airstrikes remains uncertain, but they are likely to hinder Syria's recovery and exacerbate existing tensions. The strikes have crippled infrastructure and military installations, ensuring that any attempts at rebuilding remain stunted. Moreover, Israel's actions are fueling resentment across the region and deepening anti-Israel sentiment. The potential for a broader conflict involving regional powers and the risk of further destabilizing an already fragile region remain significant concerns.