Damascus/Sweida, July 16 – Israel has intensified its military campaign in Syria, targeting the entrance of the Syrian Defence Ministry in Damascus with drone strikes. This escalation follows three consecutive days of Israeli attacks aimed at shielding the Druze minority amid violent clashes in southern Syria.
According to Israeli military sources, the airstrike targeted the military headquarters complex of the Syrian regime, specifically its main gate in Damascus. The military added that the strikes were in response to the Syrian government’s ongoing actions against Druze civilians in Sweida and surrounding areas.
Security insiders confirmed to Reuters that two drone strikes hit the defence ministry building, forcing officers to seek cover in the basement. State media Elekhbariya TV reported that at least two civilians were injured in the Israeli attack.
Fighting Intensifies in Sweida Despite Ceasefire
Meanwhile, the Druze-majority city of Sweida continues to witness fierce fighting. On Wednesday, heavy artillery and mortar fire reportedly rained down on the city and nearby villages, breaking a brief ceasefire that had been declared just hours before.
The clashes began earlier this week when Syrian government forces were deployed to quell fighting between Druze militias and armed Bedouin groups. However, instead of restoring order, government troops ended up engaging in direct conflict with the Druze fighters.
Syrian Government Responds
Syria’s state-run news agency SANA carried a statement from the Ministry of Defence, accusing “outlaw groups” in Sweida of violating the truce. The ministry urged civilians to remain indoors for safety, as reports emerged of widespread power outages and residents sheltering in fear.
Local news platform Sweida24 confirmed ongoing shelling in the area and described a deteriorating humanitarian situation, with no electricity and restricted movement.