On May 2, 2025, Israel announced it conducted a bombing near the presidential palace in Damascus following warnings to the Syrian government regarding the protection of the Druze minority. This action occurred amidst escalating clashes between pro-government forces and the Druze minority.
The Israeli military stated that combat aircraft attacked the vicinity of President Hussein al-Sharaa's Palace. This followed several days of violent encounters near Damascus, resulting in numerous casualties. Syrian Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri condemned the violence as a "genocidal campaign" against his community.
Syrian state media confirmed the attack took place near the People's Palace, located on a hill overlooking the city. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated the strikes send a clear message to the Syrian regime that Israel will not allow threats to the Druze community. The situation remains tense, with international actors urging restraint and protection of minorities in Syria.