Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed Israel's readiness to conduct military operations in southern Syria to enforce security red lines, citing concerns over the demilitarization of areas near its border and protection of the Druze minority. The announcement follows days of escalating violence in Syria's Sweida province, where clashes between government forces, local militias, and Bedouin tribes have claimed nearly 600 lives, according to monitoring groups.
Netanyahu accused Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's government of violating agreements by deploying troops into demilitarized zones and targeting Druze communities. "We acted, and we will continue to act as necessary," he stated, emphasizing that recent ceasefires were achieved through military pressure rather than diplomacy.
Israel conducted multiple airstrikes this week targeting Damascus and Sweida, claiming these operations aimed to prevent further harm to Druze civilians. However, the strikes drew sharp criticism from 11 Arab nations and the United States, with Washington clarifying it did not endorse the military actions.
While Syrian authorities announced a partial troop withdrawal following U.S.-Arab mediation, sporadic violence continues. Humanitarian organizations warn of worsening conditions as families flee sectarian violence and supply shortages.
The crisis highlights the fragile security landscape in southern Syria, where regional powers remain deeply invested in shaping outcomes. Analysts suggest the situation could impact broader Middle Eastern stability and international efforts to resolve Syria's decade-long conflict.
