Israel launched powerful airstrikes in Damascus on Wednesday, blowing up part of the defence ministry and hitting near the presidential palace as it vowed to destroy government forces attacking Druze in southern Syria and demanded they withdraw.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the Damascus headquarters served as a command center for deploying regime forces to Suwayda, a southern Syrian region gripped by days of deadly clashes between government troops, Druze militias, and Bedouin groups.

Tel Aviv announces over $500,000 aid package amid growing concerns over Israel’s intentions in southern Syria - Anadolu Ajansı

Emirates has officially resumed operations in Damascus, Syria, after a 13-year hiatus, reestablishing the city amongst its Middle East destinations.

Israel said it "struck the entrance of the Syrian regime's military headquarters" and warns of more "painful blows".

Israeli warplanes pounded Syrian government buildings in Damascus, escalating its campaign against Syria’s new authorities amid heavy clashes between government forces and the country’s Druze minority.

A live news report from Syria turns chaotic when Israeli airstrikes target Damascus, capturing the moment of explosion on camera.