Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has issued a stern warning, stating the Israeli military may intervene if Syrian forces target the nation's Druze community. This declaration, made on Saturday, reflects the rising tensions surrounding the Druze population, particularly near Jaramana, located southeast of Damascus.
During his statement, Katz emphasized, "We will not allow the Islamic terrorist regime in Syria to harm the Druze," indicating Israel's readiness to protect this minority group. The Israeli army has received directives to prepare for potential responses should there be any attacks against the Druze population by Syrian security forces.
This warning coincides with reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicating clashes between armed Druze groups and Syrian security forces, which have resulted in one fatality and several injuries. Such incidents amplify concerns about the safety of the Druze, who are often caught between the conflicting forces within Syria.
Israel's apprehension is rooted deeply in the recent political upheaval within Syria, as the fall of long-time leader Bashar al-Assad in December 2024 has seen the emergence of more extreme militant Islamic factions. This shift presents not only risks to the Druze but poses broader national security challenges for Israel.
Katz reiterated Israel's long-standing position, urging the complete removal of weapons from South Syria, including predominantly Druze areas such as Quneitra, Daraa, and Sweida. These regions contain significant Druze populations, and the security dynamics here have forced Israel to reassess its military strategies.
Following Assad’s ousting, Israel has reinforced its military presence along the border, asserting its role as protector of the Druze community. This strategic move also aligns with Israel's interests to maintain stability along its northern borders amid increasing uncertainty due to the rise of hardline Islamist factions.
While the Syrian government has not officially responded to these threats from Israel, the situation reflects the wider regional reconfiguration characterized by the recent ascendance of new Islamist leaders and growing tensions throughout the region.
Overall, as tensions escalate, Israel's commitment to defending the Druze could shape the future of military engagements within Syria and influence the broader geopolitical climate of the region.