Indonesia condemns Israeli strikes on Syria amid Suwayda tensions

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia has strongly condemned Israel's military attacks on Syria following recent clashes between the Syrian government and local militias, which have worsened security conditions and caused civilian casualties.

"Indonesia condemns Israel’s military intervention that has violated Syria's sovereignty," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a social media post on Thursday.

Indonesia also expressed concern over the escalation between the Syrian government and the Druze minority community in Suwayda, calling for a permanent ceasefire between the two sides.

The ministry added that Indonesia "will continue to support the Syrian government's efforts to achieve peace throughout Syria."

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, Indonesia urged an inclusive dialogue involving all elements of Syrian society "while upholding Syria’s national unity and territorial integrity."

According to a report by Sputnik, the Syrian army and interior ministry deployed troops to Suwayda on Tuesday to clear the city of illegal armed groups.

Later, heavy military equipment was withdrawn from Suwayda toward Damascus, and control of residential areas was transferred to internal security forces.

The operation followed an attack on Sunday by armed groups targeting Druze villages and blocking the highway connecting Suwayda to Damascus.

On Wednesday, the Israeli military confirmed that it had carried out airstrikes on the General Staff headquarters of the Syrian armed forces and a military target near the presidential palace in Damascus.

Israel said the strikes were motivated by concern for the Druze community, citing close ties with Druze citizens in Israel and historic connections to the community.