Israel Strikes Syrian Capital, Citing Protection of Druze Community
39 Missile Barrage Hits Damascus Amid Escalating Tensions
By Galaxy Tribune Staff | July 17, 2025
Presented by Mark Armstrong
In an extraordinary show of force, Israel launched a flurry of strong airstrikes on Damascus late Wednesday, striking important military installations and sending a clear message to the Syrian government about the continued bloodshed against the Druze minority in the country.
The Israeli military confirmed it struck sites near the Syrian defense ministry and presidential palace, claiming responsibility for the destruction of strategic assets belonging to what it called “hostile entities endangering civilians in southern Syria.”
“We will not allow the south to become a base for terrorism,” stated Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, Israel’s Chief of Staff.
Civil War Violence Intensifies in Sweida
Tensions have surged in Sweida, a predominantly Druze city in southern Syria, where fierce fighting has erupted between Druze fighters, Bedouin tribes, and Syrian government forces.
Despite government claims of a ceasefire, clashes continued well into the evening. Residents described a dire situation: gunfire echoing through the streets, homes destroyed, and civilians hiding indoors.
“We’re scared. The children are crying. We’re just trying to survive,” said one resident, who spoke to Galaxy Tribune on condition of anonymity.
The Syrian Network for Human Rights reported at least 169 deaths, though security sources suggest the toll could exceed 300. These figures remain unverified due to restricted access to the conflict zones.
U.S. Says Resolution Imminent
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on social media that “an agreement has been reached among the involved factions to de-escalate tonight,” offering a glimmer of hope that the worst may be over.
The United Nations Security Council is expected to convene Thursday to address the ongoing crisis.
“The Council must act urgently against these atrocities,” said Israeli Ambassador to the U.N. Danny Danon.
Follow the U.N. Council proceedings:
🔗 un.org/securitycouncil
Israeli Druze Cross Border to Aid Relatives
The violence has sparked deep concern among Israel’s own Druze community. In an emotional and bold move, dozens of Israeli Druze crossed into Syria on Wednesday to assist family members caught in the conflict.
While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s commitment to protecting Druze on both sides of the border, he urged civilians not to enter the warzone. Israeli forces later worked to bring those individuals back to safety.
“My wife, my uncles—they’re all there,” said Faez Shkeir, a Druze man from Israel. “Their homes have been looted, burned… and I can’t do anything.”
International Attention Turns to Syria’s Druze Crisis
The Druze, followers of a unique offshoot of Islam, are spread across Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. Their community has long feared being caught in the crossfire of Syria’s complex civil war.
Since March, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has faced criticism for failing to protect minority groups. Recent reports of Alawite massacres have deepened public distrust.
The Syrian government stated on Wednesday that those responsible for the violence in Sweida “will be held accountable,” reaffirming its commitment to protecting the city’s residents.
“We’re taking all necessary steps to secure Sweida and ensure justice,” the statement read.
Read more about the Druze people:
🔗 BBC: Who are the Druze?
Galaxy Tribune is going to keep an eye on this evolving topic.
For live updates, follow our coverage on
www.galaxytribune.com/conflict
Mark Armstrong reporting for Galaxy Tribune.
