Israel carried out airstrikes on Syria’s Defence Ministry headquarters and areas surrounding the presidential palace in Damascus on July 16, targeting military facilities and warning the Syrian regime to withdraw forces from southern regions. The strikes aimed to protect the Druze community amid escalating government-Druze violent clashes in Sweida. International pressure is mounting for a ceasefire.
Israel bombs Syrian military HQ and palace
Fighter jets hit the Syrian Defence Ministry and presidential palace in Damascus while conducting additional strikes in southern Syria’s Sweida region, responding to sectarian violence involving Druze fighters. Israeli officials vowed further action unless Syrian troops pulled back. At least one killed and 18 injured in the capital.
In July 2025, Israel bombed military targets in Damascus—including the defence ministry HQ and vicinity of the presidential palace—in retaliation for regime actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria. The strikes, aimed at protecting minority communities, signal an intensified stance unless Syrian forces withdraw. Calls grow for urgent de-escalation.
In July 2025, Israeli jets struck Syria’s Defence Ministry and areas near its presidential palace in Damascus, responding to government offensives against the Druze minority amid fighting in Sweida. Israel promised further action unless Syrian troops pull back. The strikes drew global concern and urgent calls for a ceasefire.
Israel, Syria, Druze tensions
