Why Israel is bombing Damascus to defend the Druze

Opinion: Little-known outside the country, Israel’s 'blood covenant' with the Druze—Arabic-speaking but neither Arab nor Muslim—explains Jerusalem’s rare strikes on Syria to protect Druze tribes, even amid fears of igniting a wider conflict. Supporters of Israel worldwide, including a great many Jews, have little notion of who the Druze are, much less Israel’s "blood covenant" with them. 

Few would know that, though Arabic-speaking, the Druze do not uniformly consider themselves Arabs. And while adhering to a monotheistic faith which broke away from Islam in the early Middle Ages, they are neither Muslims. Foreigners who claim to know Israel would be surprised to learn of the prominent role played by Druze in every aspect of Israeli society – not only in the military but in academia, politics, business and the media.

Indeed, the first awareness of the Druze for many outside of Israel came on July 27, 2024, with the murderous Hezbollah rocket attack on the Golan Druze village of Majdal Shams that killed 12 children. Even then, those watching the funerals from abroad might’ve been just as surprised to see the absence of Israeli flags that traditionally drape the coffins of terror victims and to learn that the majority of the roughly 30,000 Druze who live on the Golan Heights are not citizens of Israel. They fear that Israel will someday forfeit the Golan in a peace deal and so retain their Syrian citizenship.

If all of the above is not sufficiently confusing for non-Israelis, totally bewildering has been Israel’s decision to battle the Syrian army and even bomb Damascus in defense of Druze tribes located 100km from our northern border. As someone who defends Israel regularly in the foreign press, it’s challenging to describe this situation in a seven-second soundbite. Already fighting on multiple fronts, people understandably ask, why would Israel want to open an additional front with a nation that purportedly seeks peace with us? (Read More)

Scoop: Israel seeks U.S. help on deals to move Palestinians out of Gaza

The director of Israel's Mossad spy agency visited Washington this week seeking U.S. help in convincing countries to take hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza, two sources with knowledge of issue tell Axios.

The spy chief, David Barnea, told White House envoy Steve Witkoff that Israel has been speaking in particular with Ethiopia, Indonesia and Libya.

Why it matters: The Israeli government's goal of removing much of Gaza's population is hugely controversial. While Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu'sgovernment claims such a "relocation" would be "voluntary," U.S. and Israeli legal experts have labeled it a war crime.   

Behind the scenes: In their meeting earlier this week, Barnea told Witkoff that Ethiopia, Indonesia and Libya had expressed openness to receiving large numbers of Palestinians from Gaza, the two source say.

• Barnea suggested that the U.S. offer incentives to those countries and help Israel convince them.
• Witkoff was non-committal, and it's not clear if the U.S. will actively weigh in on this issue, one source said. 
• The White House, the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, and the foreign ministries of Ethiopia, Indonesia and Libya did not respond to requests for comment prior to publication.  

Flashback: In February, President Trump proposed the removal of all two million Palestinians from Gaza to rebuild the enclave. 

But the White House cooled on the idea after getting significant pushback from Arab countries, U.S. officials say, and it hasn't gone anywhere.   (Read More)

Hamas official: 'Ceasefire talks progressing, but US pressure on Israel is key'

Senior Hamas figure says realistic compromises have been presented, but final agreement hinges on US influence over Israel, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza is a precondition for progress. A senior official in the Hamas terror organization, who is closely involved in the indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas currently taking place in Doha, Qatar, stated that realistic compromise proposals have been presented. However, the official noted that reaching an agreement depends on the position of the United States, which has the leverage to pressure Israel.

Speaking to the newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, the Hamas official said the IDF's redeployment maps presented by Israel are a positive step and could help create a more conducive political atmosphere for reaching an agreement. He added that the negotiations are at a sensitive stage, with both sides discussing various details and conditions.

According to the official, Hamas seeks an end to what he termed “aggression” and “annihilation,” and is aiming for a comprehensive deal that would include the release of ten hostages in exchange for the release of security prisoners. He further stated, “Any real progress must be based on a clear Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, as this is a non-negotiable condition.” (Source)

Report: Israel, US pondering 'additional strikes' on Iran as intel shows partial success

According to officials speaking with NBC News, while the Fordo site is likely destroyed, two other facilities less damaged than reported and enrichment could resume in months. Trump administration officials developed an "all-in" plan to "truly decimate" Iran's nuclear capabilities through weeks of sustained bombing of six sites, but the president rejected it 

 
A fresh US intelligence evaluation has determined that American airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities achieved only partial success, with one of three targeted enrichment sites suffering complete destruction while the remaining two facilities sustained damage that may permit nuclear enrichment activities to resume within several months, according to five current and former US officials familiar with the assessment who spoke to NBC News.

The evaluation, which forms part of the Trump administration's continuing efforts to assess Iran's nuclear program status following the facility strikes, was presented to certain US legislators, Defense Department personnel and allied nations in recent days, four of those sources confirmed to NBC News.

NBC News has also discovered that US Central Command had formulated a far more extensive plan to attack Iran that would have involved targeting three additional locations in an operation spanning several weeks rather than a single evening, according to one current US official and two former US officials. (Read More)

Hezbollah leader: US efforts to disarm us meant to legitimize Israeli strikes

Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem accuses the US of pressuring Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah to benefit Israel. He claims Israel violated the ceasefire 3,800 times, while Hezbollah upheld its commitments.
Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem on Friday evening addressed the pressure the United States is exerting on Lebanon to disarm the organization.

n a speech, Qassem claimed that the purpose of this pressure is to "appease Israel and meet its demands," while legitimizing Israeli strikes on Lebanese territory. Qassem stated, “If some choose to accept this humiliation, that is their affair. We will not accept humiliation. We have sacrificed greatly, and Israel will not take our weapons.” 

He argued that the core issue is not the disarmament itself but the intention behind it: “This is a step toward Israeli expansion. Our weapons are an obstacle because they allowed Lebanon to stand on its feet and prevented Israel from expanding.” Later in his remarks, Qassem responded to claims linking Hezbollah’s arms to the question of an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

“Some ask how Israel can withdraw from southern Lebanon if Hezbollah remains armed, but it is Israel that is attacking. Why does it strike Syria when there is no threat? Under the pretext of Israel’s security, there is no place that has not been occupied, attacked, or searched.” (Read More)

EU’s First Ban: Israeli Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir Banned From Slovenia

Slovenia has become the first EU nation to ban Israeli ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, citing their inflammatory statements as incitements to violence against Palestinians. The decision, met with both support and accusations of bias, highlights tensions over Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas.
Slovenia announced a historic decision to bar Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir from entering its territory, marking the first such move by a European Union member state. 

The Slovenian government declared both ministers “persona non grata,” accusing them of inciting “extreme violence and serious violations of the human rights of Palestinians” through what authorities described as “their genocidal statements.” Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon, speaking after a cabinet session, emphasized the decision’s intent to pressure Israel to end its military operationsin Gaza, where 888 Israelis have died since the October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre that killed 1,200 and took 251 hostages.

The move follows international criticism of Smotrich and Ben Gvir, key figures in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition, known for their far-right views. In June 2025, the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway imposed sanctions on the ministers for inflammatory remarks, including Smotrich’s call to “wipe out” Palestinian villages and Ben Gvir’s advocacy for cutting humanitarian aid to Gaza during wartime. (Read more)

Netanyahu vows no Syrian forces south of Damascus, as Bedouins, Druze fight despite truce

Bedouin commander says ceasefire only applies to Damascus government, declares offensive with aim to free Bedouins held by Druze, after regime’s retreat during IDF strikes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel will continue to use military means to enforce its two red lines in Syria — the demilitarization of the area south of Damascus, near Israel’s border, and the protection of the country’s Druze minority there.

Netanyahu said the Damascus regime, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, violated both those red lines in recent days. “It sent an army south of Damascus, into the area that should be demilitarized, and it began to massacre the Druze. We could not accept this in any way,” he said in a video statement.

The premier added that the ceasefire Sharaa announced in southern Syria’s Druze-majority Sweida province, which included the withdrawal of regime troops, “was achieved through force. Not through requests, not through pleas — through force.”“We acted, and we will continue to act as necessary,” Netanyahu promised.    (Read More)

Syrian Bedouins launch new offensive against Druze in Sweida: 'Truce does not apply to us'

Commander says ceasefire applied only to government forces, adding that they were trying to free detained Bedouins held by Druze armed groups in recent days; U.S.-brokered ceasefire had halted fierce battles in Sweida after 500 dead in days of bloodshed between Druze fighters, Bedouin militants, regime forces; hospitals collapsed under the toll as residents emerged to looted homes, scorched streets and mass graves.

Syrian Bedouin fighters launched a new offensive Thursday in the southern province of Sweida against Druze fighters, defying a truce announced the previous evening aimed at ending days of deadly clashes, a Bedouin military commander said. The commander said the ceasefire applied only to government forces, not Bedouin fighters, who said they were trying to free detained Bedouins held by Druze armed groups in recent days.

Residents in the southern Syrian city of Sweida, home to the country’s largest Druze community, began emerging Thursday to survey widespread destruction after five days of brutal fighting between Druze fighters, Bedouin militants and Syrian regime forces. More than 500 people were killed in the clashes, which included reports of massacres and acts of humiliation against Druze civilians by Sunni jihadist gunmen.  (Read More)

Europe warns Iran: Resume diplomacy or face sanctions

France, Britain, and Germany issue a stern warning to Iran, demanding immediate resumption of nuclear diplomacy and threatening to reinstate UN sanctions by summer's end if "concrete progress" towards a nuclear deal isn't made. France, Britain, and Germany have delivered a direct message to Tehran, demanding an immediate return to diplomatic efforts concerning its nuclear program, Reuters reported on Thursday.

The three European nations, known as the E3, warned that a failure to demonstrate "concrete progress" by the close of summer would result in the restoration of United Nations sanctions against the Islamic Republic, according to the report. The ultimatum was conveyed during the first joint call between the foreign ministers of the E3 and the European Union's foreign policy chief, and Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. This diplomatic exchange follows mid-June airstrikes carried out by Israel and the United States targeting Iran's nuclear infrastructure.

A French diplomatic source, speaking after the call, confirmed to Reuters that the ministers urged Iran to "resume diplomatic efforts immediately to reach a 'verifiable and lasting' nuclear deal." The confirmation comes several days after the Guardian reported that the European Union is poised to begin the process of reinstating UN sanctions on Iran, with an August 29 deadline set for Tehran to show progress on its nuclear program. (Read More)

Tehran’s Bold Move: Russian Jets and Nukes for a US Showdown

Iran is intensifying its military buildup, including Russian fighter jets and European missile components, while boosting defense spending to prepare for a potential decade-long conflict with the US and Israel. Despite setbacks to its nuclear program, Tehran’s leadership remains defiant, signaling readiness for confrontation through strategic rearmament.

Iran signaled its intent to prepare for a prolonged war with Israel and the United States, with top commanders and lawmakers rallying behind a massive military buildup. Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani, Deputy Chief of Staff, declared, “We have enough supplies to wage war for 10 years if necessary,” emphasizing Iran’s resolve to strengthen its military and nuclear ambitions despite recent setbacks. 

“We are prepared for confrontation,” he added, reflecting Tehran’s belief that a clash with Western powers is inevitable. On July 6, Iran’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, with 120 lawmakers’ support, endorsed a bill to significantly boost defense spending for the IRGC, Army, and Defense Ministry. State media confirmed the legislation’s backing by senior defense and intelligence officials, signaling unified regime commitment.


Iran’s strategy extends beyond domestic funding. A senior IRGC official announced the purchase of Russian Sukhoi-35 fighter jets, a major upgrade to Iran’s aging air force, enhancing its capability to counter Israel’s F-35s. Though details on numbers and delivery remain undisclosed, the deal underscores deepening Iran-Russia ties. Additionally, German intelligence reports highlight Iran’s covert efforts to acquire missile components from Europe through third-party networks, with activity described as “high, and on the rise.” (Read Moew)

Iran rushing to rearm Mideast terror proxies after IDF, US strikes on Tehran - WSJ

Despite the denials from Tehran, there is mounting evidence that Iran continues to send military aid to these groups, demonstrating its determination to retain influence over its militia allies. Despite significant setbacks following Israeli strikes that killed key military leaders and US attacks on its nuclear facilities, Iran is accelerating efforts to rearm its militia allies across the Middle East, according to a Wall Street Journal report published on Friday.

However, Tehran has vehemently denied these allegations, with Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baqaei calling claims of weapons shipments to Yemen “baseless.” The US and Israeli strikes on Iranian assets this spring have taken a toll on Tehran's regional influence. Yet, Iran is moving quickly to replenish its stockpiles and continue supporting proxy groups in the region, particularly the Houthis in Yemen and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Despite the denials from Tehran, there is mounting evidence that Iran continues to send military aid to these groups, demonstrating its determination to retain influence over its militia allies.

This week, forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized governmentintercepted a large shipment of advanced military equipment, including missiles, drone parts, and warheads, intended for the Houthi rebels along the Red Sea coast. The seizure was carried out by the National Resistance Force, a coalition of military groups aligned with the Yemeni government. (Read More)

French, Saudi leaders bow out of own UN summit amid political headwinds

A United Nations summit set for the end of the month with the goal of establishing a Palestinian state is off to a shaky start. Originally scheduled for June but delayed by Israel’s operation against Iran, it’s now reported that the co-hosts will be no-shows. Le Monde reported this weekend that neither of the conference’s conveners, French President Emmanuel Macron nor Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, will attend, though earlier reports said they had planned to appear at the summit.

The two leaders may have encountered political headwinds, most significantly from the United States. On June 10, a week before the summit’s original scheduled date (June 17-20), the United States sent a cable warning other countries against participating, stating that those taking “anti-Israel actions” following the conference would be considered to be acting against U.S. foreign policy interests, Reutersreported.

“The United States opposes any steps that would unilaterally recognize a conjectural Palestinian state, which adds significant legal and political obstacles to the eventual resolution of the conflict and could coerce Israel during a war, thereby supporting its enemies,” the cable read. (Read More)

Israel to boost defense spending by NIS 42 b. in light of multi-front wars

The Director-General of the ministry, Maj.-Gen. Amir Baram said that this move would allow the ministry to replenish consumed stocks of weapons and ammunition. Israel will raise its defense spending by 42 billion NIS ($12.5 billion) this year and in 2026, the Finance and Defense Ministries said on Thursday, citing the country's security challenges.

 The budget agreement will enable the Defense Ministry to "advance urgent and essential procurement deals critical to national security," the ministries stated in a press release. A long-term buildup plan starting in 2027 will be developed, per Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's instructions, to "strengthen readiness and technological superiority against [distant] threats," the ministry said.

Additionally, mechanisms for the oversight of the defense budget will be strengthened, according to the statement. The Director-General of the ministry, Maj.-Gen. Amir Baram said that this move would allow the Defense Ministry to replenish consumed stocks of weapons and ammunition. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Defense Minister Israel Katz, and Finance Ministry Director-General Ilan Rom all welcomed the increase in defense spending. "The challenges ahead are complex, in distant and close arenas, against enemies who openly declare their intent to destroy us. For this, absolute military, technological, and operational superiority is required," Katz said. (Source)

Hamas leaders are rattled by emergence of clans against them in Gaza

From Israel’s perspective, this is currently the preferred solution, because nobody wants Hamas or the P.A.," a former 8200 commander says. ( JNS) Israel is reportedly actively arming and supporting multiple local, anti-Hamas clans and militias in the Gaza Strip as part of a broader effort to cultivate a new source of local power for the “day after” the war. According to assessments in Israel, Hamas has been significantly shaken by these efforts.

Recent reports indicate this policy, which includes Israeli support for a militia led by Yasser Abu Shabab in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, is expanding. According to a July 3 report by Ynet news, Israel is arming and coordinating with two additional clans: the Khalas clan, operating in Gaza City’s Shejaiya neighborhood, and a faction led by Yasser Khanidak in Khan Yunis.

This effort represents a significant attempt to reshape the political-security landscape of a post-war landscape. Brig. Gen. (ret.) Hanan Geffen, a former commander of the Israel Defense Forces elite Unit 8200 intelligence unit, told JNS in recent days that Israel is trying to learn and apply lessons from past, negative experiences with setting up groups.

...He explained that the Strip is composed of three main populations: the original residents; Bedouin tribes who arrived from Sinai; and a very large population of refugees from 1948 who came to dominate Gaza. “The descendants of refugees from the camps took over the Strip. In the end, Hamas took power,” Geffen said. (Ed note: Psalm 83:6, "The tents of Edom..." Bill Salus' book, "Psalm 83" is an excellent read and reference on this subject.)  (Read More)

‘Manifestly illegal’: In Katz’s plan for Gaza ‘humanitarian city,’ experts see war crime

Senior Israeli academics have warned forcing Palestinians into a closed-off area would be legally unjustified and constitute crimes against humanity. Defense Minister Israel Katz’s proposal to build a “humanitarian city” on the ruins of the southern Gazan city of Rafah and to transfer the entire Gaza civilian population there has elicited massive criticism both from within Israel and abroad.

Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert said such a city would constitute a “concentration camp,” while leading Israeli experts on international law have warned implementation of the plan would constitute a series of war crimes and crimes against humanity and could lead to a form of genocide.

The Wall Street Journal reported that IDF military lawyers have told IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir that the plan would be illegal if it involved coercing Palestinian civilians into the zone and preventing them from leaving.

In a briefing to reporters last week, Katz said he had instructed the IDF and the Defense Ministry to advance plan lation of Gaza — more than 2 million people — would eventually be confined to this zone. (Read More)

Israel Defends The Druze - A Prophetic Reminder Of The Fate Of Damascus

Over the past 48hrs, the skies over Syria have lit up with fire once again. Islamic militias--radical factions with deep ties to jihadist ideology--have launched coordinated assaults on the Druze community, particularly near the Golan Heights. In response, Israel has taken swift and decisive action to defend the Druze, bombing over a hundred Syrian military and militia-linked targets. It was only last week that there was talk of a possible peace accord between Israel and Syria. It's hard to see how that will now happen anytime soon. 

The Druze, a small ethnoreligious group with a long and complex history in the Middle East, have long maintained relative peace with Israel. Many Druze serve in the Israeli Defense Forces, and their villages dot the borderlands of the Golan. For Israel, allowing radical Islamic militias to overrun Druze territory would not only be a humanitarian betrayal but also a strategic disaster. The defense of the Druze is not only a moral imperative for Israel--it's a national security one. But this flare-up is not happening in a vacuum. 

Syria's so-called "new leadership"--which was hoped by some international observers to usher in a fresh era of diplomacy--has proven to be little more than a reshuffled collection of old actors cloaked in new robes. Though the civil war has left Syria fractured and fatigued, Islamic fundamentalists still hold influence across swaths of territory, especially where central government control is weak or absent. The promise of reform has quickly withered under the weight of warlord politics, regional interference, and extremist dogma. (Read More)

Chief of Staff: 'We won't allow southern Syria to become a terror stronghold'

IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir visits Syria-Israel border, says IDF 'acting decisively to prevent the entrenchment of hostile elements beyond the border, prevent harm to Druze civilians.' IDF Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir on Wednesday evening held a situational assessment at the "Nafah" Base in the Golan Heights.

Participating in the assessment were Deputy Chief of the General Staff MG Tamir Yadai; Commander of the Northern Command MG Ori Gordin; Head of the Intelligence Directorate MG Shlomi Binder; Head of the Operations Directorate MG Itzik Cohen; Commander of the 210th Division BG Yair Peli; and other commanders.

Following the Chief of the General Staff's directive to expand efforts in the sector, members of the General Staff Forum conducted a field tour and held discussions with the commanders. "We are acting with determination to prevent hostile elements from establishing a presence beyond the border, to protect the citizens of the State of Israel, and to prevent the harming of Druze civilians," Zamir began. "We will not allow southern Syria to become a terror stronghold. We will not rely on anyone else, we will defend the communities along the border. There is no room for disorder near the border fence."

He continued: "Since yesterday, the IDF has been striking targets of the Syrian regime, most of them in the As Suwayda area, and in recent hours - also in Damascus. I appeal to you - our brothers, members of the Druze community, I am aware of your pain. Nevertheless, uphold the law and preserve your lives. We are committed to you and your security and are doing everything possible to support you. I have ordered a further reinforcement of intelligence and strike capabilities in order to increase the pace of strikes and halt the assaults against the Druze in Syria as needed." (Read More)

After IDF strikes, Syria’s Sharaa accuses Israel of seeking ‘chaos and destruction’

Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa says that protecting the Druze citizens and their rights is “our priority,” after Israel vowed to destroy Syrian government forces attacking Druze in southern Syria.

In his first televised statement after the powerful Israeli airstrikes on Damascus on Wednesday, Sharaa addresses Druze citizens saying “we reject any attempt to drag you into hands of an external party.”

“We are not among those who fear the war. We have spent our lives facing challenges and defending our people, but we have put the interests of the Syrians before chaos and destruction,” he says in remarks addressed at Israel. He adds that the Syrian people are not afraid of war and are ready to fight if their dignity is threatened. (Source)

Thousands of Druze, including Knesset Members, cross into Syria

Thousands of Druze civilians crossed from Israel into Syrian territory in an attempt to assist their brethren who are under attack by Syrian regime forces. Druze-Israeli Knesset members Afef Abed (Likud) and Hamad Amar (Yisrael Beytenu) crossed the border into Syria on Wednesday amid the severe clashes in the as-Suwayda district and the attacks on the local Druze community. According to Abed, he could not stand by as his brethren suffered and crossed the border to "support his people, to assist his Druze brothers, and to monitor their defense from up close."

It was stated on his behalf that he was working in Syrian territory to convince Druze Israeli citizens who crossed the border to return to Israel so as not to put themselves in danger. In addition, it was stated that he submitted a bill to grant legal residency, a blue ID card, to Druze residents of Syria.

Abed stated: "The murderous terror regime is carrying out a brutal massacre of our Druze brothers in Syria. I am in constant contact with the Prime Minister on the matter, and I know that the State of Israel will support the members of the [Druze] community and fight their war against the Syrian terrorists."

Thousands of Druze civilians crossed the border from Israel into Syria on Wednesday. Waiting for them on the Syrian side were vehicles that took them to the battle zones in the As-Suwayda area, where there has been growing involvement by Syrian regime forces and regime-aligned armed militias. (Read More)

IDF prepares for days of battles in Sweida, carries out aerial strikes on 160 Syrian targets

As of Wednesday afternoon, the IDF had undertaken 160 aerial attacks on Syrian regime forces in and around the vicinity of Sweida in southern Syria, where Israel says the regime’s forces are slaughtering Syrian Druze.

In addition, the IDF has attacked, and possibly destroyed, Syria’s Defense Ministry, and also attacked part of the Presidential Palace in Damascus. Dozens or more Syrian regime forces are said to have been killed in IDF attacks. IDF sources said that the military is ready for a multi-day campaign to convince Syrian regime forces to withdraw from Sweida and leave the Syrian Druze their autonomy.

However, the IDF said that the situation for the Syrian Druze is desperate and that despite aerial attacks, if on Tuesday, the Druze controlled around 70% of Sweida, by Wednesday, regime forces controlled around 70% of the city. In addition, the IDF said that the regime has around 200 militia men committing atrocities against the Druze in Sweida, while another 1,000 more official Syrian regime army forces have the city surrounded and cut off. 

 The IDF implied that the Syrian regime may use this model to try to have plausible deniability that it was not directly involved in atrocities, but the military said that intelligence suggests that the mixing of using militias to do the regime’s dirty work appears to have been planned. At the same time, the IDF did not accuse the Syrian regime of provoking the current crisis. (Read More)

Israel Launches 200 Airstrikes on Damascus as Druze Tear Down Border Fence

IDF strikes at Syrian military headquarters in Damascus

IDF targets entrance of Syrian regime's military headquarters, following attacks against Druze population in southern Syria. A security source has confirmed that the IDF carried out strikes in Damascus, Syria, near a central military base belonging to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa's regime. In recent days, the tensions with Syria have soared due to the Syrian military's massacre of the Druze population in southern Syria. 

The IDF confirmed: "A short while ago, the IDF struck the entrance of the Syrian regime's military headquarters in the area of Damascus in Syria." The IDF continues to monitor developments and the regime's actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria. In accordance with directives from the political echelon, the IDF is striking in the area and remains prepared for various scenarios." Over the past day, the IDF has struck and continues to strike tanks, rocket launchers, weapons, and pickup trucks loaded with heavy machine guns on their way to the As- Sweida area in southern Syria. 

Additionally, routes were struck in order block access to the area. "The IDF continues to monitor developments and the regime's actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria,," an IDF statement explained. "In accordance with directives from the political echelon, the IDF is striking in the area and remains prepared for various scenarios." (Read More)

Thwarted: Dozens of suspects attempt to infiltrate from Syria

The IDF on Wednesday identified dozens of suspects attempting to infiltrate Israeli territory from the area of Hader in Syria. IDF and Israeli Border Police forces are operating to prevent the infiltration and disperse the gathering. Simultaneously, several Israeli civilians crossed the border fence into Syrian territory in the area of Majdal Shams. IDF troops are currently operating to safely return the civilians who crossed the border.

"The IDF emphasizes that this is a serious incident constituting a criminal offense and endangers the public and IDF troops," a statement read. "The troops continue to monitor developments and remain prepared both in defense and offense for various scenarios."

Earlier on Wednesday, the IDF confirmed: "A short while ago, the IDF struck the entrance of the Syrian regime's military headquarters in the area of Damascus in Syria." "The IDF continues to monitor developments and the regime's actions against Druze civilians in southern Syria. In accordance with directives from the political echelon, the IDF is striking in the area and remains prepared for various scenarios."

Shortly afterwards, the IDF said that it would reinforce its forces near the Syrian border, following a situational assessment."Ongoing situational assessments are being conducted to determine the necessary force deployments required to complete operational missions in various arenas," the IDF explained. "The IDF will continue to operate, both in defense and offense, to ensure the security of Israeli civilians." (Source)

Jordan wants stability in southern Syria but unclear if it's willing to help - analysis

The Kingdom of Jordan said it welcomed a ceasefire in the southern Syrian area of Suwayda after days of clashes between the Syrian government and the Druze minority. The clashes started when Druze fought with local Bedouin tribes. Jordan has a complex relationship with Syria. It wants stability, but it’s unclear whether the Kingdom will do much to support that goal. The “Jordanian foreign ministry welcomed Tuesday the ceasefire decision in the province of Sweida, southern Syria, affirming its support for the Syrian state in preserving its sovereignty,” Syria’s state media noted.

Jordanian state media Petra News noted that the foreign ministry’s spokesperson, Ambassador Dr. Sufian Qudah, “emphasized the need for calm, restraint, to prevent further bloodshed, enforce law and ensure that the Syrian state exercises full sovereignty over its territories.”

SANA state media in Syria noted that the Jordanian spokesperson “reiterated Jordan’s support for the Syrian government’s efforts to rebuild the country on foundations that guarantee its security, stability, unity, and sovereignty, while preserving the safety, rights, and security of all Syrians.” These are very general comments, indicating that Amman is reticent to say much about what is happening right across the border. It’s important to understand the context here. Northern Jordan is populated by many people who have larger tribal connections to southern Syria. This is particularly true in Irbid, Ramtha, and other areas near Syria’s Dara’a province. (Read more)

Khamenei’s bloodthirsty wolves are in a panic

Reports suggest that Mossad conducted synchronized espionage, intelligence, and military operations with precise targeting in all 25 provinces of Iran. This strongly implies that local collaborators were involved, shattering the myth of regime stability. Opinion. 

Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, has called for expedited rulings in espionage cases involving alleged ties to Israel, saying these cases “do not require extensive investigation” and should move swiftly toward sentencing. He added that when the facts are clear, judicial delays are unjustifiable. 

This directive comes as Iran’s parliament passed a revised law dramatically increasing penalties for espionage. The Supreme National Security Council is now tasked with identifying hostile governments and groups, while the Intelligence Ministry will define so-called “subversive networks.” In effect, “hostile governments” refers primarily to Israel and the United States — longstanding adversaries of the Islamic Republic. Under the new law, intelligence activity or operational cooperation with such entities is punishable by death and asset confiscation, signaling an increasingly aggressive legal posture amid rising regional tensions.

Israel, through a multilayered and multidimensional strategy, targeted the top commanders of Iran’s intelligence and espionage agencies—namely the IRGC, Quds Force, Basij, Police Intelligence, and other armed forces of the Islamic Republic—effectively dismantling the core of Tehran’s capacity to suppress and neutralize internal and external threats. Israel’s operations, due to superior intelligence and operational dominance, were like a decapitation strike: simultaneously eliminating senior officials and paralyzing the regime’s intelligence-security apparatus. (Read more)

Trump: I'm in no rush to talk to Iran

US President Trump states he is "in no rush" to talk to Iran, despite their desire for discussions. US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he is “in no rush” to talk to Iran, even though the Islamic Republic is hoping to engage in discussions with the United States. Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said, "They would like to talk. I'm in no rush to talk because we obliterated their site," a reference to the US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites last month.

His comments come a day after Iran's foreign ministry announced that it has "no specific date" for a meeting with the United States regarding its nuclear program. The announcement was made by foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, who stated that no specific date, time, or location has been determined for a possible meeting between top Iranian and American diplomats.

He accused the "Zionist regime," in coordination with the US, of "military aggression against Iran." He maintained that Iran has been "serious in diplomacy and the negotiation process" and "entered with good faith."Omani-mediated discussions between Iran and the US were halted after Israel launched surprise strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 13.  (Read More)

Europe gives Iran August deadline for 'snapback' sanctions

The EU is moving to reinstate UN sanctions on Iran with an August 29 deadline for nuclear progress. This action could trigger a full "snapback" of sanctions by October 15. The European Union is poised to begin the process of reinstating UN sanctions on Iran, with an August 29 deadline set for Tehran to show progress on its nuclear program, the Guardian reports

During a meeting with his EU counterparts, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated on Tuesday, “France and its partners are … justified in reapplying global embargos on arms, banks and nuclear equipment that were lifted 10 years ago. Without a firm, tangible and verifiable commitment from Iran, we will do so by the end of August at the latest.”

The August deadline initiates a process that could lead to a full reimposition of sanctions by October 15, providing the European signatories of the 2015 nuclear deal - the UK, France, and Germany - with a negotiating tool. These nations aim to see the return of the UN nuclear inspectorate to Iran to prevent the country from reconfiguring its nuclear program after the damage from recent US strikes. The 2015 nuclear deal’s structure prevents other signatories, such as China and Russia, from vetoing the sanctions "snapback." Similarly, the US, which withdrew from the deal in 2018, also cannot veto the European action.  (Read More)

Israel’s strategic affairs minister: Hamas must fall for Gaza war to end

Ron Dermer says a ceasefire depends on the terrorist group losing power and no longer controlling the coastal enclave. American columnist, writer and political adviser Dan Senor interviewed Israel’s strategic affairs minister in Jerusalem on Sunday for his “Call Me Back” podcast. Part one aired online on Monday, with the second part set to be published on Tuesday.

In a candid discussion, Dermer addressed Israel’s geopolitical realities following the Hamas-led terrorist attacks on Oct. 7, 2023; subsequent regional developments; the confrontation with Iran; and the evolving security doctrine.

Right now, what we’re trying to do is get to a ceasefire. We have a team in Doha as we’re speaking. I hope that we can move this forward and achieve a temporary ceasefire, which can hopefully lead to a permanent one if we can secure the minimum conditions necessary to end the war—namely, that Hamas cannot remain in power,” he said.

The minister argued that removing Hamas from Gaza is the absolute baseline required for victory in the conflict. “The minimal requirement is that the force responsible for the Oct. 7 attack is no more. They have lost control of Gaza due to their decision to act,” Dermer asserted. (Source)

Trump asked Zelensky if Ukraine could hit Moscow, FT reports

US President Donald Trump has privately encouraged Ukraine to step up deep strikes on Russian territory, even asking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether he could strike Moscow if the US provided long-range weapons, the Financial Times reported on Tuesday, citing people briefed on the discussions.

The newspaper, citing two people familiar with the conversation between Trump and Zelensky, said the US president had asked his Ukrainian counterpart whether he could hit military targets deep inside Russia if he provided weapons capable of doing so.The White House did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Reuters could not verify the report.
White House showing support to Ukraine 

The US will send "top-of-the-line weapons" to Ukraine via NATO countries, US President Donald Trump announced on Monday. This came along with a threat to Russia of severe tariffs if they were unable to reach a deal to end the war within the next 50 days, the BBC reported. Following a meeting with NATO Chief Mark Rutte in Washington, Trump said, "We want to make sure Ukraine can do what it wants to do. Rutte had confirmed the US decided to "massively supply Ukraine with what is necessary through NATO." (Source)

Iran: No new date for US nuclear negotiations

Iran delays nuclear talks with the US following Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear facilities. Foreign Ministry spokesman says "no specific date, time or location has been determined" for a meeting. Iran's foreign ministry announced on Monday that it has "no specific date" for a meeting with the United States regarding its nuclear program, following the recent conflict with Israel. 

The announcement was made by foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei, who stated that no specific date, time, or location has been determined for a possible meeting between top Iranian and American diplomats, according to the AFP news agency. Omani-mediated discussions between Iran and the US were halted after Israel launched surprise strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on June 13. 

The US later joined with its own attacks on June 22. Baqaei on Monday accused the "Zionist regime," in coordination with the US, of "military aggression against Iran." He maintained that Iran has been "serious in diplomacy and the negotiation process" and "entered with good faith."
Despite the conflict, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed Tehran’s commitment to a peaceful resolution. "We continue to believe that the window for diplomacy remains open, and we will seriously pursue this peaceful path," Pezeshkian said in a statement.  (Read More)

Lebanon: IDF begins striking Hezbollah Radwan Force targets in the Beqaa Valley

IDF begins strikes on targets, including facilities used by the terrorist organization for training and preparing terrorists to plan and carry out terrorist attacks against IDF troops and the State of Israel. 

Israeli Air Force fighter jets, directed by the Intelligence Directorate and the Northern Command, began numerous strikes on Tuesday morning against Hezbollah terror targets in the area of the Beqaa Valley in eastern Lebanon.

The military compounds that were struck were used by the Hezbollah terrorist organization for training and preparing terrorists to plan and carry out terrorist attacks against IDF troops and the State of Israel. As part of the terrorists' exercises and training at these military sites, the terrorists carried out drills for gun combat and the use of various weapons. Hezbollah's "Radwan Force" is a unit that planned and advanced the "Conquer the Galilee" plan for years.

The unit commanders were eliminated in September 2024 in Beirut and southern Lebanon during Operation "Northern Arrows", and since then, the unit has been operating to reestablish its capabilities. The unit advanced the Hezbollah terrorist organization's primary ground threat. IDF troops have been operating against the unit in the past two years, preventing its reestablishment and the rebuilding of its strength.   (Read More)

Syrian forces advance on Sweida amid deadly Druze-Bedouin clashes

Syrian forces are advancing on Sweida amid deadly Druze-Bedouin clashes, which have resulted in 99 deaths. Local leaders seek a truce as residents fear for their safety, highlighting instability post-Assad.
Syrian government forces on Monday advanced on the southern city of Sweida as deadly clashes between local Druze fighters and Bedouin tribes continue, prompting international concern.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor, reported that 99 people have been killed since the fighting erupted on Sunday, according to the AFP news agency. Casualties include 60 Druze individuals (four of whom were civilians), 18 Bedouin fighters, 14 security personnel, and seven unidentified individuals in military uniforms.

On Monday, Syrian forces took control of the Druze village of Al-Mazraa, where Bedouin fighters were also present. A commander, Ezzeddine al-Shamayer, confirmed that forces "are heading toward Sweida" city. The Syrian interior ministry also stated that "army and internal security forces have moved closer to the centre" of Sweida province.

Talks are reportedly underway to de-escalate the situation. Bassem Fakhr, spokesperson for the Men of Dignity movement, a prominent Druze faction in Sweida, told AFP that discussions were "underway between the notables of the city of Sweida and representatives of the general security (forces) and the defence ministry to reach a solution." (Read more)

IDF striking Syrian forces after regime move on Druze-majority city

Large columns of Syrian regime forces rolled into Sweida amid violent clashes between Druze militias and forces loyal to the Sunni Islamist regime. The Israel Defense Forces were instructed on Tuesday to “immediately” protect the Druze minority in Syria by striking Syrian regime forces deployed to the Sweida area of the country’s south, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz told the IDF to “immediately strike regime forces and weaponry that were brought into the Sweida area of Syria’s Jabal al-Druze [Druze Mountain] region for regime activity against the Druze,” according to the statement. Damascus had violated “the demilitarization policy that was decided upon, which prohibits the entry of [regime] forces and arms into southern Syria that could endanger Israel,” it continued.

“Israel is committed to preventing harm to the Druze in Syria due to the deep fraternal alliance with our Druze citizens in Israel, as well as their familial and historical ties to the Druze in Syria,” according to the PMO.  (Read More)

North Korea to send as many as 30,000 troops to bolster Russia’s forces

Recent developments in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have taken a surprising turn with reports of North Korean involvement.According to CNN, intelligence suggests that North Korea may be sending troops to support Russia in its military efforts against Ukraine, raising concerns about the deepening ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.

This potential deployment marks a significant escalation in North Korea’s role in the conflict. While the exact number of troops and the nature of their involvement remain unclear, officials have indicated that such a move could further complicate the geopolitical dynamics in the region.

The relationship between Russia and North Korea has been under scrutiny for some time, particularly as both nations face international sanctions and isolation. Analysts note that military cooperation could provide North Korea with economic or technological benefits from Russia, while Moscow gains additional manpower in its prolonged campaign in Ukraine.

South Korean and Western intelligence agencies have been monitoring these developments closely.Re ports suggest that North Korean soldiers could be deployed to frontline areas, though confirmation of their presence on the ground has yet to be officially verified. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared insights into the situation.“If North Korea is indeed sending troops to assist Russia, it would represent a major shift in their foreign policy and a direct challenge to international norms,” the official stated. Such a development could prompt stronger responses from the United States, NATO, and other allies of Ukraine. (Read More)

Breaking migration mold: Flamingos spend first-ever summer at Hula Lake

Typically arriving from regions with saline lakes and algae-rich ponds, such as Turkey and Iran, flamingos are not usually drawn to freshwater habitats. The Upper Galilee brought an unexpected surprise: Flocks of pink flamingos have chosen to remain at Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael–Jewish National Fund’s Hula Lake, even through the hottest days of summer. For the first time, they have skipped their usual migration north.

Over the past decade, flamingos have gone from rare visitors to regular migratory birds in Israel. They are typically spotted at the Hula Lake during the transitional seasons of spring and fall, and in recent years, some have even begun staying through the winter.

Typically arriving from regions with saline lakes and algae-rich ponds, such as Turkey and Iran, flamingos are not usually drawn to freshwater habitats like Hula Lake. That’s what makes it all the more remarkable: Dozens of flamingos, including some juveniles, have remained in the park throughout the summer. This prolonged and unexpected stay defies both their migration pattern and habitat preference. (Ed note: pink flamingos are considered omnivores as they will eat both plant and animal matter. Why is this important? See Ezekiel 39:17.)   (Read More)