US, EU express concern following Israeli strikes on Damascus

Israel struck sites in Syria amid fighting between the Druze minority and the Syrian government. Meanwhile, an ultra-Orthodox party withdrew from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's cabinet.

• Israel strikes Syria amid clashes between the Syrian government and Druze minority
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he expects deescalation in Syria, after expressing concern
• European Council President Costa says Syria's sovereignty must be respected

This blog is now closed, thank you for following along. Below are developments in Syria, Israel, Gaza and other parts of the Middle East on Wednesday, July 16: