Israel's PM says it will "not allow any threat" to the minority in Syria after sectarian clashes in which dozens were killed.

Israel struck a target near the presidential palace in the Syrian capital after the Druze community in both countries called for help following a series of violent clashes between the minority group and Syrian government forces.

Syria's Islamist rulers on Friday denounced an air strike near the presidential palace as a "dangerous escalation", as Israel reportedly launched its heaviest barrage this year on the country.Israel said the Damascus strike was a "clear message" to the government not to harm the Druze minority,