The Israeli army states it struck the entrance to the Syrian army headquarters in Damascus. Concurrently, Syrian state media reports Israeli forces targeted Sweida, a majority-Druze city where Syrian government troops had deployed despite warnings from Tel Aviv. SANA news agency stated, “Israeli occupation drones targeted the city of Sweida.” An AFP correspondent witnessed an attack on a military truck at Sweida’s western entrance, a gathering point for government forces before entering the city.
This follows a report by Axios that the U.S. had requested Israel halt raids against Syrian military forces in the country’s south. Israel asserts it hit a “military target” near the Syrian presidential palace area.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed being “deeply concerned” by the Israeli attacks in Syria. The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes on Damascus, calling them “an attempt to sabotage Syria’s efforts to establish peace, stability, and security.” A ministry statement urged, “The Syrian people have a historic opportunity to live in peace and integrate with the world. All stakeholders supporting this opportunity should contribute to the Syrian government’s efforts to establish peace.”
The European Union voiced alarm over ongoing clashes in Sweida causing numerous casualties and firmly condemned reported violence against civilians. It urged all parties to immediately implement yesterday’s ceasefire agreement, protect all civilians without distinction, and end hate speech and sectarian incitement. An EU statement emphasized that transitional authorities bear responsibility for easing tensions, restoring calm, ensuring prosecution of crimes, and advancing an inclusive transition, adding the EU stands ready to assist. Furthermore, the EU called on all external actors to fully respect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in light of escalating Israeli attacks on Syrian territory.
© Copyright ANSA. All rights reserved.