Behind the Bombs: Why Israel’s Strikes on Syria Signal a Dangerous New Era in Middle East Power Politics.
Suwayda, Syria —16 July 2025. The sky over Damascus was ablaze
in the early hours before dawn. The horizon was striped with missiles. Sirens
sounded. A TV anchor shrieked and ducked for shelter as an explosion shook the
building behind her during a live broadcast on Syrian state television.
It was more than just a military attack. Loud, angry, and intensely personal,
it was a message.
Israel had just attacked Syria's capital with a series of airstrikes. Not for
the typical reasons, though. It has nothing to do with Iran this time. It had
nothing to do with Hezbollah.
One Heartbeat, Two Communities
A tiny, close-knit religious minority, the Druze live in Israel, Syria, and
Lebanon. They serve in various armies, speak various dialects, and live under
various flags. However, their connection transcends national boundaries.
With pride, many Israeli Druze serve in the Israeli military, defending a
nation that defends them. However, their affections for their cousins in the
southern Syrian mountains have never wavered.
Israel's Druze community therefore screamed when it was revealed that the
Syrian government was bombarding Druze villages in Suwayda, destroying homes,
killing families, and trapping children in the middle. Quite loudly.
The Israeli authorities paid attention.
A War of a New Sort?
Israel's attacks in Syria for years were motivated by the need to prevent
Iranian weapons from getting to its borders. However, this? This was not like
the others.
It was a personal matter.
It poses fresh queries. Is Israel going to protect other minorities as well?
Will it set an example for other nations? Is it ever possible for violence to
be genuinely protective?
People in the area are holding their breath.
My Words
Israel made a risky, audacious, and divisive choice to bomb Syria. However, it
may have been the last remaining lifeline for the Druze who were stranded in
the midst of the pandemonium.
Whether it delivers peace or more slaughter is yet unknown. However, someone
spoke up for a little moment in an area that is far too frequently dominated by
apathy and indifference.
And the message reached the people who needed it the most, not just governments
and militaries.
