Netanyahu Reveals Direct Call to Syria's Leader After Damascus Strike

The crisis peaked in mid-July 2025 in Syria's southern al-Suwayda province, a Druze stronghold, following the collapse of the Assad regime and the rise of a transitional government led by al-Sharaa. Sectarian clashes between Druze factions, Bedouin tribes, and Syrian government forces resulted in thousands of deaths, systematic abuses, and a severe humanitarian crisis. The deep ties between Israel's Druze community and those in Syria placed heavy domestic pressure on the Israeli government to intervene.

According to documents held by the State Comptroller, Netanyahu called al-Sharaa on July 16, 2025, demanding that Syrian forces withdraw from al-Suwayda by 10:00 p.m. When al-Sharaa requested a 48-hour delay, Netanyahu rejected the plea. Hours after the call, the IDF struck major targets in Damascus, including the Ministry of Defense and areas within the presidential palace compound, after which the violence against the Druze ceased.

This disclosure marks the first public confirmation of direct communication between Netanyahu and the Syrian leader. While previous security contacts between the two nations had been managed through lower-level officials and back channels, Netanyahu emphasized his ongoing commitment to protect the Druze community and assist in their safe return home.