“We Will Not Allow the Syrian Regime to Harm the Druze”
In a statement issued this evening (Saturday), Netanyahu and Katz declared: “We will not allow the extremist Islamist regime in Syria to harm the Druze. If the regime harms the Druze, it will be harmed by us.”
Reaffirming Israel’s commitment to the Druze community both domestically and across the border, they stated: “We are committed to our Druze brothers in Israel and will do everything possible to prevent harm to their brethren in Syria. We will take all necessary measures to ensure their safety and will not allow the extremist Islamist regime in Syria to target the Druze population.”
Jaramana Under Threat: Druze Caught in the Crossfire of Syria’s Civil War
The town of Jaramana, located in the suburbs of Damascus, has suffered multiple attacks throughout the Syrian Civil War, primarily from mortar shells and car bombings. These assaults were attributed to various rebel factions, including extremist Islamist groups, which viewed Jaramana as a target due to its perceived support for the Assad regime.
As a religious minority, the Druze in Syria have found themselves in a precarious position, striving to maintain neutrality but often being perceived as regime supporters—making them a target for certain rebel groups.
Rising Concerns Among Syria’s Druze Community
Fears among Syrian Druze have intensified with the rise of radical Islamist forces like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, which threatens their religious freedom. The deteriorating security situation and the fear of further attacks have likely driven Druze communities in Syria to seek external support for their protection.
IDF Operations on the Northern Border
Last week, the IDF carried out airstrikes on military targets in southern Syria, including command centers and weapons storage sites. These strikes are part of a new policy led by the IDF to prevent the entrenchment of hostile forces in the region following the weakening of the Assad regime.
“Israel Will Remove Any Threat to Its Citizens”
The IDF issued a statement warning of the dangers posed by hostile military forces in southern Syria:
“The presence of weapons and military elements in southern Syria poses a threat to the citizens of Israel. The IDF will continue to act to eliminate any threat to the security of Israeli civilians.”
Defense Minister: “We Will Not Allow Southern Syria to Become Another Front Against Israel”
Defense Minister Israel Katz addressed the airstrikes, emphasizing that Israel will not allow southern Syria to become a new front against it: “The Air Force is currently striking with full force in southern Syria as part of our newly established policy of demilitarizing the region.
Security Buffer Zone
Katz further clarified Israel’s stance: “Our message is clear: we will not allow southern Syria to become another South Lebanon. Any attempt by the Syrian regime or terrorist organizations to establish a foothold in this security zone will be met with fire.”
Following the collapse of the Assad regime, Israeli forces seized control of vast areas in Syria to prevent terrorist factions from gaining a foothold. According to reports, the IDF has now expanded its operations in Syria, taking further preemptive action against emerging threats.
