Defense Minister Israel Katz commented on the Israeli strikes in Syria following the unrest in the country, saying: "Israel's attacks against regime targets in As-Suwayda and Damascus were the only way to stop the massacre of Druze in Syria, the brothers of our Druze brothers in Israel." According to him, "Those who criticize the strikes are not familiar with the facts. The government's policy in Syria, including the IDF presence on Mount Hermon and in the security zone, and the protection of the Druze, is correct and responsible, and reflects strength and mutual solidarity."