Israel has carried out airstrikes targeting Syrian government troops near the southern city of Suweida, following intense sectarian violence in the region that left around 100 people dead over two days.

The strikes came shortly after Syrian forces moved into Suweida, a predominantly Druze city, to restore order following fierce clashes between local Druze militias and Bedouin tribal groups. The Syrian defence minister announced a ceasefire on Tuesday morning, stating that an agreement had been reached with local leaders to allow government forces to enter the city. Despite the ceasefire, some Druze religious leaders called on their followers to resist government presence.

In a statement later on Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had authorized strikes in the Suweida area. He claimed the Syrian government planned to use its military forces and weaponry against the Druze population, prompting Israel to act.

Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s commitment to protecting the Druze community, citing the strong ties between the Druze in Syria and those in Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

This marks the first time that Syrian government troops have entered Suweida since Islamist-led rebels ousted President Bashar al-Assad in December. While the new Syrian leadership has pledged to safeguard minority groups, many—including the Druze—remain skeptical of its intentions.

Until now, Suweida province had largely remained under the control of Druze militias, who resisted aligning with the central government.