Israeli Strikes, Clashes Kill 89 in Southern Syria

Israel carried out airstrikes on Syrian military tanks in southern Syria on Monday, as deadly clashes intensified between Syrian government forces, Bedouin tribes, and Druze militias in Sweida province.

Fighting in the region has left at least 89 people dead. Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed over 30 deaths and nearly 100 injuries, while the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported at least 89 fatalities, including children, women, and security personnel.

The clashes reportedly began after Bedouin tribesmen kidnapped and robbed a young Druze man at an illegal checkpoint, prompting retaliatory attacks. Reports suggest some government forces supported the Bedouin fighters, further escalating tensions with the Druze community.

Interior Ministry spokesperson Noureddine al-Baba said government forces entered Sweida early Monday to restore order. “Clashes occurred with outlawed armed groups, but our forces are working to prevent civilian casualties,” he told state television.

UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria Najat Rochdi expressed “deep concern” over the violence and urged all parties to protect civilians and pursue dialogue to end hostilities.

Israel, which views the Druze as a loyal minority, has previously intervened to support them. In May, Israeli forces struck near the presidential palace in Damascus following deadly clashes involving Druze fighters. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant had earlier warned that Israel “will not allow deployment of Syrian government forces south of Damascus or any threat to the Druze community.”

Meanwhile, a group led by Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri accused Syrian government forces of backing extremist Sunni militants and appealed for international protection.

In response, Syria’s Foreign Ministry called on countries to respect its sovereignty and cease support for separatist groups, warning against efforts to destabilize the country’s social fabric.