Jerusalem, 16 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — At a state memorial for Theodor Herzl, President Herzog spoke about the Syrian government’s attacks on its Druze population and the State of Israel’s actions in Syria to protect the Druze.
“First, the State of Israel does not stand idly by when there is even the potential for a jihadist threat over the border,” he said. “Second, the State of Israel does not stand idly by when our allies and family members of Israelis – the sons and daughters of the Druze community, an integral part of us – are under attack and in danger of a horrific massacre.”
“At the same time,” he added, “with deep understanding of the pain of the Druze community and the concern of our Druze sisters and brothers – I call from here to everyone: uphold the law, do not cross the border. Rather, allow the military and diplomatic effort to do its work. The State of Israel must act, and indeed is acting and will continue to act, until quiet and security are restored to our border.”
Israel’s military and diplomatic leadership issued strong responses Wednesday to escalating violence against Druze civilians in southern Syria. The Druze community is roiled by the ethnic clashes in the Syrian area of Suweida between their brethren and Sunni Bedouins.
At least 248 people have been killed in several days of clashes. Government forces loyal to interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa have sided with the Sunni Bedouins.
The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) continued its attacks on the Syrian regime’s military on Thursday.