Israel Launches Airstrike in Syria, Targeting Group Accused of Attacking Druze Community

Jerusalem — The Israeli military said it carried out airstrikes in southern Syria on Tuesday night, targeting what it described as a militant group responsible for a recent cross-border attack on the Druze community in northern Israel. The strike marks a significant escalation amid already rising tensions in the region.

According to a statement from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), the airstrike was aimed at “a terrorist cell that operated from Syrian territory and attacked Israeli civilians in the northern Galilee, specifically targeting the Druze village of Beit Jann.” The IDF said the group had crossed into Israeli territory from Syria in recent days and fired upon civilians before retreating back across the border.

“The Israeli military will not tolerate aggression against its citizens,” the IDF stated. “We hold the Syrian regime responsible for all hostile activity originating from its territory and will act decisively to ensure the safety of all Israeli communities, including our Druze population.”

The targeted area, near the Syrian town of Quneitra close to the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, is known to be a stronghold for several militia groups, including Iran-backed factions and remnants of Syrian opposition forces. Syrian state media confirmed that Israeli aircraft launched missiles into the region, reporting material damage but no casualties. However, opposition sources within Syria claimed that at least four fighters were killed in the strike, though this could not be independently verified.

The attack on the Druze community earlier this week shocked many in Israel. The Druze, an Arabic-speaking ethnoreligious minority, are known for their strong loyalty to the Israeli state, with many serving in the military and holding prominent positions in society. The incident drew condemnation across the political spectrum.

Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Israel, praised the military’s swift response and called on authorities to increase security in the northern regions. “The attack on our people was a cowardly act of terror,” he said. “The Druze community stands united with the State of Israel in the fight against extremism.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also addressed the incident, stating, “An attack on any Israeli citizen is an attack on us all. The perpetrators will pay a price, and we will not rest until they are brought to justice. The Druze are our brothers, and we will protect them with the full strength of the IDF.”

The broader context of the strike highlights the increasing volatility of Israel’s northern border. With the war in Gaza continuing to affect regional dynamics, the northern front has become more active. In recent months, Israel has intensified its strikes in Syria, targeting Iranian infrastructure, Hezbollah operatives, and various Syrian military positions to prevent the buildup of hostile forces near its borders.

However, Tuesday’s strike is notable for its connection to an attack on a specific minority group within Israel. Analysts say it reflects Israel’s growing concern that its enemies are shifting tactics, seeking to exploit social divisions and target vulnerable communities.

“This was not just a military move—it was a message,” said Yaakov Lappin, a defense analyst with the Begin-Sadat Center for Strategic Studies. “By responding quickly and forcefully, Israel is demonstrating that it sees any attack on the Druze as equivalent to an attack on the state itself.”

Syria, meanwhile, has accused Israel of violating its sovereignty, calling the airstrikes “an act of aggression.” Damascus has frequently condemned Israeli attacks on its territory, though it has rarely retaliated directly due to its weakened military state after years of civil war.

International reaction has been muted so far, though the United Nations has previously urged both sides to show restraint. Peacekeeping forces stationed in the Golan Heights have increased monitoring activity in response to the heightened tensions.

As the situation develops, both Israeli officials and Druze leaders have emphasized unity and resilience in the face of the threat. “We will not be intimidated,” said Beit Jann mayor Rami Naeem. “Our community has stood the test of time, and we will continue to stand strong—together with the rest of Israel.”