Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, has pledged to protect the Druze minority following days of deadly sectarian clashes in their heartland of Sweida. The violence, which has claimed at least 360 lives according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), marks one of the worst outbreaks of unrest in the region in recent years.

Al-Sharaa, who leads the internationally recognized Syrian interim government, vowed accountability for the perpetrators of the violence. "We will not allow any harm to come to the Druze community or any other minority in Syria," he declared. The clashes, fueled by long-standing tensions and economic grievances, have raised fears of further destabilization in the war-torn country.

Meanwhile, Israel launched airstrikes on Damascus early Wednesday, with officials citing the need to "support the Druze community" as a justification. The strikes targeted military sites near the capital, though Syrian state media reported that most missiles were intercepted. The Israeli military has not provided further details on the operation.

The Druze, a close-knit religious minority, have largely stayed neutral in Syria’s civil war but have faced increasing pressure from various factions. The recent violence has drawn international concern, with calls for de-escalation from the UN and regional powers.