Following the Israeli attack on Damascus, Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara stated that we are not afraid of war. He pledged to protect the Druze community and issued a stern warning to Israel.
Syria Israel War: After the recent Israeli attack on the Syrian capital Damascus, Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara has made his first public statement. He clarified that Syria will not back down from war at any cost. According to him, the Syrian people have always faced challenges and are not intimidated by any conflict.
Israel Accused of Inciting Sectarian Tension
President al-Shara accused Israel of creating sectarian divisions in Syria, particularly concerning the Druze community. He said that victory on one front does not guarantee success in every arena. He also reiterated that Syria will not tolerate any foreign interference in its internal policies and society.
Emphasis on the Importance of the Druze Community
The Syrian President described the Druze community as the soul of the country. He stated that protecting their security and rights is the government's duty. Amidst the escalating conflict and internal tensions, he also indicated that dialogue should be prioritized over seeking solutions through weapons.
The Role of US and Turkish Mediation
President al-Shara acknowledged that mediation by the United States, Arab countries, and Turkey has prevented the situation from deteriorating further. He also clarified that Syria will take every step to defend itself if necessary, but it will not push its country towards destruction.
Israeli Defense Forces' Claim
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that it attacked Syrian army positions in the southern part of Syria, particularly in the Sweida region. The IDF also released a video showing Syrian military vehicles and positions being targeted.
Situation in Sweida Highly Tense
The city of Sweida, where the Druze community has a large presence, has become a center of high tension these days. According to the IDF, the Israeli Air Force targeted armored vehicles, weaponized trucks, and military outposts there. In addition, Syrian army weapons depots and other strategic sites were also attacked.
Israel's Justification: Action Taken in Self-Defense
Israel says that the activities of Syrian and Iranian-backed groups were intensifying near its borders, which could pose a threat to national security. That is why this attack was carried out in self-defense. Additionally, according to Israeli sources, the Syrian army is committing atrocities against the Druze community, resulting in the deaths of over 300 people. This is the reason Israel took action.
UN Security Council Meeting Called
Given the seriousness of the situation, a meeting of the United Nations Security Council has been called to discuss the Syria-Israel conflict. The international community has also expressed concern over the entire development and appealed for efforts towards peace.
