In a bold video statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel will keep using military force in southern Syria if necessary. His focus? Enforcing two critical red lines: ensuring the area south of Damascus is demilitarized and safeguarding the Druze community. ⚡️
Netanyahu accused the Damascus government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, of crossing a line by sending an army into a zone that should remain free of military forces and by endangering the Druze through violent actions. "It sent an army south of Damascus, into the area that should be demilitarized, and it began to massacre the Druze. We could not accept this in any way," he declared.
The crisis began when violence erupted in Sweida following an attack on a young Druze man by members of a Bedouin tribe. The assault quickly spiraled into retaliatory kidnappings and clashes involving local Druze fighters, government forces, and Bedouin militias. In response, Israel launched multiple airstrikes on key sites in Damascus and Sweida to prevent further harm. 💥
Although a ceasefire was brokered in Sweida through U.S.-Arab mediation, tensions remain high. Syrian interim authorities reported a withdrawal of government troops, yet local armed groups are accused of breaching the ceasefire and committing serious crimes, compounding the humanitarian crisis as nearly 600 people have lost their lives.
The international community, including 11 Arab nations such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE, has strongly condemned the strikes, warning that these actions threaten Syria's sovereignty and civilian safety. The United States has also voiced its opposition to the recent Israeli strikes.
As the situation continues to evolve, Netanyahu's vow underscores his commitment to acting firmly when red lines are crossed. Stay tuned for more updates as this complex story unfolds. 🚀
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Netanyahu vows continued military action in southern Syria if needed
cgtn.com
