Israel struck a target near the presidential palace in the Syrian capital after the Druze community in both countries called for help following a series of violent clashes between the minority group and Syrian government forces.

Amid escalating sectarian violence in Syria, the Israeli military has said it is prepared to act in defence of the Druze minority, particularly in the southern regions of the conflict-hit country. In a statement released Saturday,

The strike near the president’s residence, announced Friday morning by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, came after violence targeting the Druze population in Syria. Israel is also home to a Druze minority, many of whom serve in its military.