In statements given to the Syrian News Channel Ikhbariya TV, the Minister explained that Israel “seeks to provoke the Syrian state with calculated incursions,” and specified that Damascus’s position is based on avoiding falling into “Tel Aviv’s pretensions” of opening a direct confrontation.

“Arrogance and a sense of impunity are blinding Israel,” he added.

During a visit to the affected area, al-Mustafa called on the press to cover the aggression and show the world “the resilience of the residents,” in addition to expressing his solidarity with the Syrian state.

He reiterated the government’s full support for the population and its commitment to stand with them “in all circumstances.”

The Minister’s statements come after an Israeli patrol raided the village of Beit Jinn, west of Damascus, an incident that led to a clash with residents and left six Israeli soldiers wounded, including three officers.

Minutes after the clash, Israel launched an airstrike on the village, killing 15 civilians, including women and children, and wounding approximately 25 others, according to the Syrian Ministry of Health.

abo/arm/fm