DAMASCUS, SYRIA - JULY 16, 2025: Cleanup operations began in Damascus on Wednesday, July 16, after Israeli airstrikes blocked several major roads in the Syrian capital. Debris covered streets around Umayyad Square following Israeli strikes that hit the Syrian General Staff building, prompting fire crews and municipal teams to clear the area and restore access. The strikes disrupted traffic and caused damage in one of the city’s busiest areas. Israel launched Wednesday airstrikes on Damascus, targeting the Defense Ministry and areas near the presidential palace. The strikes came as Israel resumed attacks in the southern Suwayda province, warning it will continue unless Syrian forces withdraw. The Syrian army had deployed troops to the area to restore order after clashes between armed Druze and Bedouin groups that killed at least 30 people. The Israeli army claims the operations are to protect the Druze minority. Writing by Aleyna Cil