Israel strikes Damascus amid Syria conflict

Israel carried out airstrikes in Damascus on Wednesday, hitting the Defense Ministry headquarters and areas near the presidential palace. The Israeli government said the operation aimed to protect the Druze minority in southern Syria, where government forces and Bedouin militias clashed with Druze armed groups in Sweida.

Syria condemned the attacks, accusing Israel of targeting "government and civilian institutions," causing significant damage. Three people were killed and 34 wounded, according to Syria’s Health Ministry. Following the strikes, a new ceasefire was announced, though its effectiveness remains uncertain.

The conflict comes at a sensitive time, with the U.S. working to improve relations with both Israel and Syria. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is in "constant talks" to end the violence.

Meanwhile, Sweida has seen a surge in sectarian violence, with hundreds dead, including civilians. Israel justified the strikes as a way to protect the Druze and prevent Islamist militias from approaching its borders. The international community, including the UN and Turkey, condemned Israel’s actions.

With reporting from correspondents in Tel Aviv, Beirut, Washington, and Cairo.