**The recent violence in Suweida challenges local authority and escalates Israel's military involvement, complicating the fragile ceasefire.**
**Tensions Escalate as Israel Strikes Syrian Forces Amid Deadly Sectarian Violence**
**Tensions Escalate as Israel Strikes Syrian Forces Amid Deadly Sectarian Violence**
**Israeli airstrikes target Syrian troops after conflict erupts in Druze city of Suweida, raising regional tensions.**
Israel has launched airstrikes against Syrian government forces entering the Druze-majority city of Suweida, following a spate of violent sectarian clashes that have resulted in over 200 fatalities. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported that the violence began on Sunday between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, leading to heightened tensions and unrest. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the attacks, aiming to prevent government forces from using their military capabilities against the Druze community, whom he stated have historical ties with Israel.
In a significant development, Syria's defense minister declared a ceasefire on Tuesday as Syrian forces entered Suweida for the first time since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2020. However, accusations have arisen regarding the conduct of Syrian troops, with claims of summary executions and widespread vandalism targeting civilian properties during their deployment. Meanwhile, the Israeli government, under increasing pressure from the United States to halt its strikes, indicated a willingness to cease attacks later that evening.
The recent hostilities were ignited when a Druze merchant was reportedly abducted and robbed, leading to armed clashes that spread across the region. Following initial mediation efforts, violence resumed as government forces attempted to assert control in the area amidst ongoing clashes between local militias. As casualties mounted – including women and children – local leaders have urged collaboration against the Syrian military’s aggressive moves.
Despite calls for a truce, influential Druze leaders remain divided. Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri has publicly urged fighters to resist the Syrian government's advances, signaling a potential for further instability in the region. With Israel's military engaged in retaliatory actions to protect the Druze, the situation remains volatile as rescue operations and potential negotiations unfold amid a backdrop of regional tension and civil unrest.
