Israeli leaders said they launched attacks on Syria this week to protect members of the Druze religious group in the country’s south, amid clashes in the area.

The Syrian presidency has accused Druze fighters in Sweida of violating a ceasefire that prompted the withdrawal of Syrian government forces from the region. In a strongly worded statement, Damascus condemned the alleged violence by these factions and blamed Israeli interference for escalating the situation.

ToI's diplomatic reporter delves into the secretive religion and why, in championing the underdog minority, Israel may be playing the long game in the region

The Druze–Jewish covenant is a call for moral awakening for all who believe in partnership, in values, and in mutual responsibility. It is a reminder that the courage to stand with the other – while remaining loyal to who we are – is the most ethical act a community can choose.

Claims circulated that he was dead after a video appeared online of men in military attire taunting the 80-year-old. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Why did Israel stand up for the Druze in Syria? Russia benefits from Israeli intervention, because there are no former terrorists. The observer writes about the current situation in the Middle East Pravda.