Israel Escalates Syria Strikes, Boosts Northern Border Forces to Protect Druze

Israel has intensified military strikes against Syrian government forces, targeting military headquarters in Damascus and areas around Suwayda, in response to deadly clashes between Druze, Bedouin groups, and Syrian troops that have resulted in nearly 250 deaths. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have ordered an escalation of attacks and reinforcement of forces along the Syrian border to protect the Druze community, which Israel considers a deep ally and has pledged to defend. The Syrian government, led by transitional president Ahmad al-Sharaa, is accused by Israel and Druze leaders of directing aggression against the Druze minority, prompting calls from Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif for intensified Israeli airstrikes and international intervention. The conflict has raised regional tensions, with the Gulf Cooperation Council condemning Israel's strikes as destabilizing, while the U.S. has expressed concern and is engaging diplomatically. Syrian government forces have continued artillery and rocket attacks on Druze-controlled areas despite ceasefires, complicating efforts to stabilize the region. Israeli officials have also warned against uncontrolled crossings into Syria by Israeli Druze, emphasizing the security risks to both communities.