Israel launches airstrikes on Damascus and Daraa: Death toll rises to 6

The death toll from Israeli attacks on Syria is rising. In a statement issued by the Syrian Ministry of Health, it was announced that 6 people, including 5 soldiers, were killed and 28 others were injured in the Israeli strikes.

Israel had targeted the area housing the Presidential Palace in the capital Damascus, as well as the General Staff headquarters and the city of Daraa, citing the conflict between Druze groups in the southern Syrian city of As-Suwayda and the Syrian army, as well as the security of the Druze population in the region.

'ATTACKS WILL CONTINUE'

Israel also announced its decision to increase its military presence along the Syrian border. In a statement by the Israeli military spokesperson, it was noted that military reinforcements would be deployed in the border region following the developments in As-Suwayda. The statement further indicated that the Israeli army is "conducting situational assessments to determine necessary reinforcements at the border within the framework of operational objectives." The Israeli army also emphasized that it "will continue both defensive and offensive actions."

The Israeli military's statement also included information that individuals attempting to cross into the Syrian side via the Golan Heights were intercepted. It was reported that individuals attempting to cross the border from Syria were detected in the Hader region, and that Israeli forces prevented their passage and intervened to disperse the crowd.

The Israeli press reported that following the events in As-Suwayda, some Syrian Druze headed toward the Golan region. Additionally, it was stated that some individuals from the Israeli-occupied Majdal Shams crossed toward Syria. It was reported that Israeli soldiers made efforts to stop these crossings and bring back those who had crossed the border. Information was shared that the Israeli army is closely monitoring the current situation and "remains prepared for different scenarios for both defense and offense."

SYRIAN PRESIDENCY REACTS

The Syrian Presidency reacted to the events. In a statement issued by the Presidential Press Office, the incidents that took place in some areas of As-Suwayda were condemned, describing them as "criminal and illegal." The statement said, "These actions are in complete contradiction with the fundamental principles of the Syrian state. Those responsible, whether at an individual or organizational level, will be held accountable before the judiciary. No crime will go unpunished."

While it was stated that the state considers protecting security and stability as its primary priority, it was noted that a comprehensive investigation into the events is ongoing and that all necessary legal processes will be carried out.

News Source: İHA