Heavy fighting continues as US Secretary of State announces agreed steps to end the Suweida conflict.
US, Israel and Syrian Forces Seek Resolution Amid Ongoing Violence in Suweida
US, Israel and Syrian Forces Seek Resolution Amid Ongoing Violence in Suweida
Attempts to stabilize the region escalate as ceasefire talks progress.
Israel's military operations in Syria persist into their third day as violence rages in Suweida, largely affecting the Druze population and triggering international reactions. On Wednesday, the Israeli Armed Forces targeted the Syrian defense ministry and associated military units in southern Syria, citing the need to protect their "Druze brothers." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted Israel’s commitment to safeguarding the Druze community, which has deep historical ties to Israeli Druze.
The death toll from escalating clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes since Sunday has crossed 350. Reports suggest that sporadic fighting has significantly intensified in the region. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked that the US had agreed on “specific steps” aimed at achieving a ceasefire following discussions with regional partners. Syrian state media indicated that government forces might be withdrawing from Suweida in line with the ceasefire agreement following negotiations with local religious leaders.
The ongoing violence has raised alarms among local minorities, contributing to a distrust of the interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose government has struggled to maintain order amid fears of sectarian conflict. Hundreds of Druze attempted to flee to safety in Israel, prompting Israeli troops to deploy tear gas to deter their movements as Netanyahu urged those with Israeli ties to return home for their safety.
Israel's continued airstrikes indicate a restrained but decisive strategy to compel the Syrian government to withdraw its military presence from the region. Authorities claim the airstrikes have targeted not only military installations but also armed vehicles and weapon caches en route to Suweida.
Witness accounts from inside Suweida reveal terror and chaos as military strikes hit crowded areas, resulting in numerous casualties. As the conflict escalates, the Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli actions as "flagrant assaults" that exacerbate the already volatile situation, violating international humanitarian law.
The situation in Suweida, deteriorating rapidly, is marked by shortages in essential supplies and urgent medical assistance, as residents grappling with sporadic gunfire express fears for their safety amidst rising sectarian tensions. The disputed nature of a recent ceasefire remains uncertain amid the backdrop of rampant violence and distrust. Accusations against government forces for inciting further chaos complicate efforts for peace.
As topics of sovereignty and territorial rights mount, the international community watches closely as the situation in Syria continues to evolve, with negotiations for peace ongoing amid a backdrop of conflict.
The death toll from escalating clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes since Sunday has crossed 350. Reports suggest that sporadic fighting has significantly intensified in the region. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked that the US had agreed on “specific steps” aimed at achieving a ceasefire following discussions with regional partners. Syrian state media indicated that government forces might be withdrawing from Suweida in line with the ceasefire agreement following negotiations with local religious leaders.
The ongoing violence has raised alarms among local minorities, contributing to a distrust of the interim Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, whose government has struggled to maintain order amid fears of sectarian conflict. Hundreds of Druze attempted to flee to safety in Israel, prompting Israeli troops to deploy tear gas to deter their movements as Netanyahu urged those with Israeli ties to return home for their safety.
Israel's continued airstrikes indicate a restrained but decisive strategy to compel the Syrian government to withdraw its military presence from the region. Authorities claim the airstrikes have targeted not only military installations but also armed vehicles and weapon caches en route to Suweida.
Witness accounts from inside Suweida reveal terror and chaos as military strikes hit crowded areas, resulting in numerous casualties. As the conflict escalates, the Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned Israeli actions as "flagrant assaults" that exacerbate the already volatile situation, violating international humanitarian law.
The situation in Suweida, deteriorating rapidly, is marked by shortages in essential supplies and urgent medical assistance, as residents grappling with sporadic gunfire express fears for their safety amidst rising sectarian tensions. The disputed nature of a recent ceasefire remains uncertain amid the backdrop of rampant violence and distrust. Accusations against government forces for inciting further chaos complicate efforts for peace.
As topics of sovereignty and territorial rights mount, the international community watches closely as the situation in Syria continues to evolve, with negotiations for peace ongoing amid a backdrop of conflict.
