Syrian sources reported Thursday that forces loyal to Ahmed al-Sharaa, the current head of Syria's new government, are planning to enter Jabal al-Druze (Druze Mountain) in southern Syria "to strengthen security and stability" in the region. However, Israeli officials remain skeptical about these intentions.
"There are groups of armed individuals reporting plans to carry out a massacre in the Druze Mountain area. The forces of Syria's new government claim their personnel are en route to protect the Druze. We are monitoring these reports closely. If it becomes clear that the Syrian regime intends to harm the Druze population, the IDF will immediately launch an attack—not a warning strike. Still, direct action against forces threatening the Druze," an Israeli security official stated.
Earlier Thursday evening, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to the Syrian regime, saying: "I again warn Syrian regime head Julani: if attacks on Druze in Syria don't cease, we will respond with severe force." Katz noted that following previous attacks on the Druze community, he and the Prime Minister instructed the IDF to conduct warning strikes against extremist elements and conveyed a clear message to Syria about its responsibility to prevent further violence.
The situation remains highly volatile as Israeli forces continue monitoring developments in real time. Israel has declared its commitment to protecting the Druze minority, many of whom have familial connections to Druze communities in northern Israel.
International observers fear this conflict could escalate regional tensions when the Middle East is already experiencing significant instability.