The U.S. State Department has condemned recent Israeli airstrikes on Syria, calling for a peaceful resolution to the escalating conflict. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce reiterated that the United States does not support the strikes and is calling for dialogue between Israel and Syria to prevent further escalation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced that a U.S.-brokered agreement has been reached to end the immediate violence, signaling a concerted effort to stabilize the region.
The airstrikes targeted key institutions, including Syria’s Defense Ministry headquarters and areas near the presidential palace, resulting in casualties. These actions followed reports of armed skirmishes between the Druze community and local Bedouin Sunni tribes, prompting Israel to intervene under the pretext of protecting civilians. The U.S. has expressed concern over the situation, highlighting the need for all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue to achieve long-term peace and de-escalation.
Israeli military officials stated that the strikes were a defensive measure to prevent the entrenchment of hostile elements beyond the border and to protect Israeli citizens and Druze civilians. Chief of the Israeli Defense Forces’ general staff, Eyal Zamir, emphasized that the intervention was aimed at addressing the broader conflict involving the Druze and Bedouin communities. This situation comes at a time when U.S. officials, including Secretary Rubio and Special Envoy Tom Barrack, are working to mediate peace efforts between Israel and Syria, reflecting a commitment to reducing regional instability.
While the U.S. has not confirmed the exact reasons behind the Israeli strikes, officials have acknowledged the need for further investigation. The State Department’s spokesperson, Tammy Bruce, highlighted the complexity of the situation, explaining that it stemmed from an ancient rivalry between the Druze and Bedouins, leading to violence that the Syrian government sought to quell. However, the Israeli intervention has raised questions about its necessity and potential consequences. Despite the immediate violence, officials have expressed cautious optimism that the conflict has de-escalated, and efforts are ongoing to ensure a lasting ceasefire and increased stability in the region.