Israel’s bombing of Syria’s Druze-majority Sweida province has provoked sharp reactions from principal West Asian nations. Iran threatened regional escalation, posing the question, “Which capital is next?” Qatar denounced the attack as “a serious violation of international law,” as Turkey branded it as one of Israel’s broader acts of destabilization.
The assault comes after internal Syrian fighting between Druze and Bedouin militias, with concern for Syria’s religious minorities and accusations of Israeli overreach.
Iran Sounds Alarm: “Which Capital is Next?”
Iran denounced Israel’s move as a clear case of unprovoked aggression. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on X accused Israel of destabilizing the region.
Unfortunately, this was all too predictable. Which capital is next?
The rabid Israeli regime knows no bounds and only grasps one language. The world, including the region, must unite to end its unhinged aggression.
Iran supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of… pic.twitter.com/93kueERy2S
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) July 16, 2025
Rabid Israeli regime has no limits and understands just one language,” he said. Araghchi further stated, “This was predictable to a degree. Which capital will come next?” He demanded regional solidarity against Israeli actions and reaffirmed Iran’s alignment with Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Qatar Cites Serious Breach of International Law
Qatar gave a stern rebuke in the form of its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In the statement, it referred to the Israeli attack as “a blatant violation of Syria’s sovereignty” and an open breach of the UN Charter.
It further expressed that Israel’s continuous raids demonstrate its challenge to the international community’s effort to restore and stabilize Syria. The ministry urged the international community to take firm action.
Qatar reiterated its “full support for the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Syria” and supported the Syrian people’s desire for dignity and peace.
Turkey Warns Against Regional Destabilisation
Addressing reporters in New York, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed his nation’s concerns. He confirmed that negotiations with US officials and diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria had taken place.
Turkey has communicated its stance to Israel via its intelligence networks, Fidan stated. “We don’t want instability here,” he underlined.
Fidan also questioned whether the Syrian government could settle internal unrest without making serious efforts to provide security in sensitive areas.
Why Did Israel Strike?
Tensions in Sweida province in Syria started when Bedouin tribesmen established a checkpoint and assaulted a Druze man. That led to retaliatory kidnappings and attacks.
Government troops intervened but were accused of siding with the Bedouins. Their entry into Druze enclaves created fears of a minority crackdown.
Israel fired on its attack grounds of necessity to defend Druze civilians.
Legacy of Trauma Fuels Distrust
Sweida’s Druze community is highly suspicious of Damascus. Many remember the Syrian army’s history of affiliation with extremists such as Ahmed al-Sharaa and al-Qaeda.
Additionally, the trauma of the 2018 ISIS massacre—where more than 200 Druze were killed and dozens abducted—lingers in the community.
Concerns are rising that Syria’s new political order can again sideline minorities.
Wider Conflict Looms
As Israeli strikes continue and Syrian factions clash, the threat of regional escalation grows. Iran’s warning signals deeper instability. Qatar and Turkey’s condemnations underline rising diplomatic tensions.
With no ceasefire in sight and community mistrust deepening, the region braces for more unrest.
