Tensions are rising in southern Syria. Israeli warplanes targeted both civilian and military sites in the Suwayda and Daraa regions. According to initial reports, two people were injured in an airstrike on central Suwayda, and a Syrian army tank was destroyed.
Syria’s official news agency SANA confirmed that Israeli forces struck central Suwayda and also targeted the city’s northwestern entrance.
Syrian Army Responds to Israeli Jets and Drones
Local sources reported that following the attacks, Syrian army anti-aircraft batteries (ZU-23) responded to Israeli warplanes and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) detected in the airspace. The activation of air defence systems further escalated tensions in the region.
Israeli Strike on Military Convoy in Daraa
Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes reportedly targeted a military convoy belonging to Syria’s Ministry of Defence in the Izra district of Daraa province. No official statement has yet been released, and there is no confirmed information on casualties or damage.
Growing Internal Clashes in Suwayda: 30 Dead, 100 Injured
Internal conflict is also intensifying in Suwayda, where violent clashes have broken out between Druze groups and Bedouin Arab tribes. What began two days ago with the seizure of vehicles has escalated into mutual kidnappings and armed confrontations. At least 30 people have been killed and over 100 injured.
In response, units from the Ministries of Defence and Interior were dispatched as reinforcements. However, the convoys heading to the region were also targeted by Israeli airstrikes. Initial reports indicate that 18 soldiers were killed and 9 were taken hostage in the attacks.
Israel Justifies Strikes: “We Will Not Allow Harm to the Druze”
Israeli Defence Minister Yisrael Katz defended the strikes, stating, “We will not allow harm to come to the Druze. Israel will not stand idly by.” Following his remarks, Israel reportedly carried out five additional airstrikes in the region.
