Israel carried out two airstrikes on Syria’s defence ministry in Damascus, collapsing part of the building and injuring officers, as it intervened in escalating fighting between Syrian government forces and Druze militias in southern Syria.

The strikes followed days of Israeli attacks aimed at deterring Syrian military deployment near Israel’s border and signaling support for the Druze community, though many Druze reject being seen as Israeli proxies.

Clashes in Suweida province between Druze fighters and Bedouin Arab tribes have killed over 200 people in four days, despite a brief ceasefire attempt.

Fighting erupted after a robbery and has since spiraled, with Druze militias resisting government forces’ entry.

Meanwhile, civilians face shortages and violence in Suweida city.

The conflict threatens to spark broader sectarian tensions in Syria, where Druze leaders have called for international protection, The Guardian has reported.

Israel has reinforced its border, warning its Druze citizens against crossing into Syria.

Written by B.C. Begley