“Trump Still Focused on Syria…” — White House Responds to Latest Israel-Druze Tensions
Washington, D.C. | July 18, 2025
The White House has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between Israel and the Druze community in Syria, particularly after recent Israeli airstrikes near Sweida and the southern Syrian border — areas largely inhabited by the Druze minority.
During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated:
“We are closely monitoring the situation. While Israel remains a close ally, recent actions in southern Syria — particularly in Druze-majority regions — were not coordinated with the United States, and we’ve made that clear.”
The comment comes after former President Donald Trump said in an interview that he was “still committed to achieving a long-term solution in Syria” and called the recent Israeli strikes “counterproductive” to regional stability.
Trump’s Stand: Diplomacy Over Strikes
In a statement to reporters from his Palm Beach office, Trump said:
“We were working on a broader Syria-Israel de-escalation deal. These strikes make it harder. I understand Israel’s security needs, but this is not the way forward.”
Sources close to Trump claimed that backchannel talks between Syrian tribal leaders and Israeli officials were progressing — with U.S. mediation — until the recent air raids disrupted that track.
Druze Community in the Crossfire
The Druze community, a religious minority with members in Syria, Israel, and Lebanon, has historically tried to stay neutral in major regional conflicts. However, the recent Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed multiple civilians in Sweida, sparking outrage among Druze leaders and triggering mass protests in the Golan Heights and parts of northern Israel.
The Syrian interim government, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa, condemned Israel’s action and vowed to protect Druze citizens from further harm. Israel, in contrast, defended the strike, citing intelligence of a Hezbollah weapons transfer through Druze territory.
White House Message: Caution and Restraint
While reaffirming support for Israel’s right to self-defense, the White House called for:“Maximum restraint” from all parties
Respect for minority communities
Re-engagement in diplomatic channels
A National Security Council spokesperson added:
“President Trump’s previous efforts toward de-escalation in the Syria-Israel theater laid important groundwork. We urge all sides to return to dialogue.”
International Reactions
United Nations called for an independent investigation into civilian casualties.
France and Russia both condemned the strikes and warned against further escalation in the Syrian south.
Druze diaspora communities in the U.S., Lebanon, and Canada have begun mobilizing for international recognition and safety assurances.
Conclusion
The clash between Israel and Syrian Druze regions has opened a new front of tension in the Middle East. While President Trump’s past peace efforts are being revisited, the Biden administration (if in office at the time) or the current transitional team is now under pressure to rebuild diplomatic bridges and protect vulnerable minorities like the Druze from becoming pawns in broader regional conflicts.
The White House has not ruled out sanctions or diplomatic penalties if further uncoordinated strikes occur.
