Israel says strikes on Syrian forces prevented massacre against Druze
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated on Monday that recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian government forces were crucial in preventing what he described as an imminent massacre of civilians in the southern governorate of Suwayda.
The strikes, carried out days earlier, hit government forces and the General Staff headquarters in central Damascus following their deployment to Suwayda, where deadly clashes had escalated between local factions and Bedouin tribal forces.
“Israel’s attacks against regime targets in As-Suwayda and Damascus were the only way to stop the massacre of Druze in Syria, the brothers of our Druze brothers in Israel,” Katz added.
“Those who criticize the strikes are not familiar with the facts,” he noted.
Gallant emphasized that the Israeli government’s policy in Syria, including the IDF presence on Mount Hermon and in the security zone, and the protection of the Druze, is correct and responsible, and reflects strength and mutual solidarity.