Israel launched strikes Tuesday against Syrian government forces in the Druze-majority region of Sweida, saying it was acting to protect the religious minority.Damascus had deployed troops to Sweida after clashes between Druze fighters and Bedouin tribes killed more than 100 people.

Syria’s defense minister has announced a ceasefire after days of deadly sectarian violence in southern Sweida province. Government forces entered a key city in the province on Tuesday following clashe

Israel reportedly struck Syrian forces near its border, vowing to protect the Druze minority amid deadly clashes in Sweida and growing regional tensions.

Syrian troops entered the predominantly Druze city on Tuesday following two days of clashes, the first time government forces have deployed to Sweida since the new government took power.

Israel carried out strikes against Syrian government forces in southern Syria, saying it was acting to protect the Druze minority.

In Syria, Israel launched rare attacks on forces of the new government, while in Lebanon it took aim at the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.

Israel's military said it was striking military vehicles belonging to government forces in the Sweida area of southern Syria, after Syrian state media reported a new strike on the Druze-majority city.

Clashes in Syria between Bedouin tribes, government forces, and the Druze minority have left dozens dead, raising fears of escalating violence.

The Syrian province of Sweida has witnessed deadly clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, with government forces clashing with local groups. Over 30 people have died, and nearly 100 have been injured.