Israel has stepped up its military operations in Syria, launching a series of airstrikes on Damascus that struck strategic government installations including the Ministry of Defense and zones near the presidential palace.

The attacks, occurring amid growing violence in the Suwayda region, left three dead and 34 wounded, according to Syrian officials.

The Israeli military stated that these operations aim to protect the Druze minority, whom they consider potential allies, while targeting pro-government forces that have been accused of attacking them.

The strikes followed days of deadly clashes between Syrian government forces and local Druze fighters, which had erupted over a series of kidnappings and retaliatory attacks.

Syria’s government condemned the Israeli actions as a “dangerous escalation” and a violation of international law.

The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Israel of deliberately inflaming tensions and undermining stability in the region. Following the attacks, a new ceasefire was announced in Suwayda, and government troops began withdrawing from the area.

Analysts suggest that Israel’s ongoing military operations reflect its intent to prevent the Syrian government from consolidating power, particularly in strategically important southern regions near its borders.

The situation remains tense as Israel warns it will escalate its actions unless Syrian forces withdraw completely from Suwayda.