As fighting between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes escalates in Suweida province, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announces agreements for a ceasefire. Syrian state media reports troop withdrawals and ongoing violence as Israel's military strikes targets related to the regime.
US and Allies Seek Resolution Amidst Escalating Violence in Syria
US and Allies Seek Resolution Amidst Escalating Violence in Syria
International efforts are underway to curb the violence in Syria following Israeli airstrikes, aiming for a peaceful resolution in Suweida.
Israel conducted airstrikes on Syria's defense ministry in Damascus and targeted government forces in the southern region of Suweida on Wednesday, coinciding with a surge in sectarian violence that has reached its fourth day. In total, more than 300 individuals have perished in Suweida since clashes erupted between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu justified the strikes as a measure to safeguard the Druze community, identifying them as "brothers" under threat from the Syrian regime. The Syrian government, for its part, described the Israeli actions as "treacherous aggression."
In a swift response to the violence, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed concern about the situation but conveyed optimism, stating, "We have agreed on specific steps that will bring this troubling and horrifying situation to an end tonight." Meanwhile, Syria's foreign ministry welcomed U.S. and Arabian diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the ongoing turmoil.
As reported by state news agency Sana, Syrian forces have begun withdrawing from Suweida as part of an arrangement with local religious leaders after successfully pursuing "outlaw groups." Israel's military originally commenced operations in the area on Monday, striking security forces and equipment after the regime's forces were deployed to Suweida for the first time since the rise of Sunni Islamist-led opposition groups. The Druze community remains wary of interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, despite assurances of their protection.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz reiterated the country's commitment to defending the Druze and stated that Israeli operations would persist until the threats against them are eradicated. Furthermore, reports of panic in Damascus surfaced as airstrikes targeted the capital, including significant facilities and populated areas.
In the backdrop of these military actions, the humanitarian situation in Suweida has rapidly deteriorated, exacerbated by ongoing clashes and the emergence of acute shortages of essential supplies. Eyewitness accounts of civilian casualties and further escalations paint a grim picture of the ongoing conflict, highlighting the dire conditions that have arisen since fighting escalated over the abduction of a Druze merchant.
The Syrian interior ministry announced a ceasefire in Suweida, indicating potential pathways to calm amidst the chaos. However, uncertainty remains as armed groups continue to clash, and the region grapples with its complex sectarian tensions and the dangerous entrenchment of military forces. The situation reflects broader regional dynamics, with Israel's longstanding military strategy aimed at eliminating perceived threats from adversarial groups in Syria.
