Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has stressed the protection of the Druze as a priority, while Israel has stepped up attacks on Syrian government forces.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria's interim president, said protecting Druze is essential in the wake of Israeli air strikes on Damascus. Israel has vowed to destroy government forces attacking the Druze community, while the US has announced measures to stop the violence. The recent attacks have resulted in significant casualties and escalated tensions in the region, with Israel warning that it will not allow southern Syria to become a terrorist stronghold. The UN Security Council will meet to discuss the situation.