Israel’s military launched air strikes near Damascus after Syria’s defense minister threatened intervention to protect the Druze minority amidst ongoing sectarian violence that has resulted in 102 deaths. Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri condemned the violence as a “genocidal campaign” and called for international intervention, while Syrian authorities sought to ensure stability through unity, despite accusations of neglecting their duty to protect civilians. The conflict, fueled by recent massacres and extremist pressures, reflects the challenges facing Syria’s new Islamist authorities.