Pakistan, July 16 -- Israel increased its military presence along the Syrian border on Wednesday after violent clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups in southern Syria. The unrest, centered in the Sweida region, led the Syrian government to send in troops. In response, dozens of Druze attempted to cross the fortified border into Israel. Israeli soldiers used teargas to stop them and prevent any infiltration.

The Israeli army reported that several Israeli Druze also crossed into Syria through the fence near Majdal Shams. Troops quickly began efforts to bring them back safely. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Druze citizens not to cross into Syria. He said doing so could result in death, kidnapping, or harm to Israeli military op...