Israel Strikes Syria and Lebanon Amid Border Security Concerns

Israel conducted airstrikes in Syria and Lebanon, targeting Syrian government forces and the Hezbollah militia. These actions are described by Israel as measures to secure its northern border. The strikes in Syria occurred amid sectarian clashes in Sweida, where Syrian government forces became involved. Israel has expressed a commitment to protecting the Druse minority, which has ties to Israel's own Druse population. In Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, a Hezbollah stronghold, was targeted, which Lebanese officials interpret as an effort to pressure the group into disarming. Israel's Defense Minister stated these attacks send a strong message to Hezbollah and the Lebanese government regarding any attempts to rebuild military capabilities.