Why in news?
On 16 July 2025, Israel launched major airstrikes on targets in Damascus and Suwayda in Syria. These attacks brought fresh attention to ongoing tensions in West Asia.
Context
Syria has been in civil war since 2011. Israel is concerned about Iranian and Hezbollah forces operating near the occupied Golan Heights. The Druze minority in Suwayda had been caught in clashes between government militias and Bedouin fighters.
Recent events
- Israel struck the Syrian defence ministry and presidential compound, citing the need to protect the Druze and prevent hostile forces from entrenching near its border.
- The strikes followed days of violence in Suwayda sparked by a kidnapping incident. Israel warned it would continue operations if threats persisted.
- The United States indicated that the fighting would likely subside soon, while Syria condemned the attacks as violations of sovereignty.
- Analysts view the strikes as part of Israel’s broader strategy to counter Iran’s influence in the region.
Implications
The episode highlights the fragile security situation in West Asia, the vulnerability of minorities like the Druze and the risk of escalation between regional powers. Understanding these dynamics is important for India’s foreign policy.