Israel has carried out two sets of airstrikes on Syria over the last two days.

In a series of airstrikes carried out over the weekend, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted military sites in Syria, claiming the actions were necessary to defend Israeli civilians amidst rising tensions between the Syrian government and the Druze minority. The first strike reportedly took place early Saturday morning, followed by a strike on Friday near the Palace of Hussein al-Sharaa in Damascus, the power center of the new Syrian regime. Historically, Israel has consistently utilized airstrikes in Syria as a means of addressing perceived threats, particularly against Iranian weapon transfers to Hezbollah. The context for these airstrikes is complex. They come amid increasing tensions between the Druze community, a minority in Syria, and the newly established Syrian government, which is backed by the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. The Druze, who make up about 3% of Syria’s population, have been seeking greater autonomy since the fall of the Assad regime. Reports indicate that a viral audio clip purportedly showing a Druze leader insulting Islam incited unrest, leading to violence that resulted in the deaths of over 80 people. The significance of the Israeli strikes lies not just in their military implications but also in the political landscape they reveal. Israel's assertion that it acts to defend the Druze echoes its historical support for the community, yet the ongoing military actions may serve to fracture the delicate balance within Syria. Critics claim that such external interference only exacerbates pre-existing tensions, portraying Israel as an opportunist seeking to exploit divisions in Syria rather than contribute to stability. Furthermore, while Israel maintains that its operations aim to deter threats near its borders, the actions have raised questions about their efficacy. Observers highlight that airstrikes are not a replacement for meaningful diplomatic engagement and that the ongoing military actions could drive Syria closer to conflict rather than peace. As regional powers, including Turkey, weigh in, the issue of federalism within Syria remains unresolved, particularly among the Druze. This leaves many wondering if the future will consist of sustained violence or if a mutual accommodation will be reached among various factions. In conclusion, the recent Israeli airstrikes not only reflect a continuation of a long-standing military policy but also underscore the complexities of Syria's socio-political fabric as it attempts to navigate inter-group dynamics and external influences. The ramifications of these strikes could reverberate beyond the immediate impacts, further complicating Israel's relationship with both the Druze and the Syrian state. The international community’s response to this ongoing conflict and the underlying issues surrounding the Druze community underscores the urgent need for a push towards diplomatic solutions that consider the historical grievances and aspirations of all Syrian factions.