Israeli forces launched air strikes on Suwayda in southern Syria on Tuesday, hours after the Syrian government announced a ceasefire to halt ongoing clashes in the predominantly Druze city. Syria’s Ministry of Interior accused Israel of backing armed groups

Israel’s government said it was acting in defense of the Druze community, a minority group the Jewish state has pledged to protect.

CAIRO - Several Middle Eastern countries on Tuesday condemned Israel's military intervention in the clashes in Syria's southern province of Sweida among local Druze armed factions, Bedouin tribes, and the interim government's forces respectively.

The longtime enemies have opened contacts, reflecting a power shift across a Middle East in which they have newfound common ground: antipathy for Iran.

Samaria Council Head Yossi Dagan urges Israeli government to increase military action, until massacre of Druze community stops, stressing Israel’s role as a regional power protecting its loyal allies.

Deadly clashes erupted in Syria’s Sweida province, leaving over 30 dead and nearly 100 injured, according to the Syrian Interior Ministry. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported a higher toll,

Syrian activist relays discussion with Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa about his interest in peace deal with Israel, but several key issues remain between the two countries.