Israeli Strikes Hit Syria and Lebanon Amid Tensions

Israel launched airstrikes on Damascus and southern Syria, citing the need to protect the Druze minority amid escalating sectarian violence and actions by Syria’s new jihadist-led government. The strikes targeted Syrian military headquarters and disrupted state television, with Israeli officials vowing to defend Druze communities in Israel and Syria. These actions come as Syrian troops have reportedly allied with Sunni Bedouins in Sweida, leading to violent clashes and multiple casualties among Druze civilians. The Syrian government condemned the Israeli strikes as illegal and promised investigations, while international actors, including the US, voiced concern for Syria’s religious minorities. Separately, in Lebanon, Hezbollah denounced an Israeli strike in the Beqaa Valley that killed 12 people as a 'major escalation' and called on Lebanese authorities to respond. The events reflect growing regional instability and the vulnerability of minority groups amid shifting alliances and violence.