**Syria's President Commits to Safeguarding Druze Amid Rising Sectarian Tensions**

**Amid turmoil in Suweida, Syria, President Sharaa reassures Druze communities of government support while addressing recent sectarian violence exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes.**

 

Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has pledged to prioritize the protection of the Druze minority amidst escalating sectarian violence in Suweida province, following recent airstrikes by Israel targeting Syrian military sites. In his first public address since the attacks, Sharaa declared that the government is focused on safeguarding the Druze citizens, describing them as an integral part of Syria.

Reports indicate over 350 fatalities are linked to recent clashes between Druze militias and rival Bedouin tribes, escalating tensions that led to government troop deployments in Druze-majority areas for the first time in years. While there are indications of a temporary ceasefire, it remains uncertain how lasting this may be.

In his address, Sharaa condemned the "outlawed groups" allegedly attacking civilians and reaffirmed Syria's determination not to be drawn into external conflicts. He touched upon suspicions surrounding his past affiliations with radical Islamist factions which have heightened concerns among Druze and other minority groups.

The Druze faith, a distinct offshoot of Shia Islam, has communities not only in Syria but also in neighboring countries, including Lebanon and Israel. Recent violent incidents have prompted fears of an expansive conflict that could further destabilize the region.

The speech included assurances that local religious leaders would now oversee security arrangements in Suweida, reflecting a commitment to prioritize the region's stability. Sharaa concluded by vowing accountability for those responsible for violence against the Druze community.

In response to the violence and Israel's military actions, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured Israeli Druze that efforts were underway to protect them from threats posed by the Syrian regime. The Israeli military stated its operations were aimed at thwarting the establishment of hostile forces near its borders.

Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated discussions were ongoing with involved parties to find a resolution, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling commitments made to restore peace.

Despite the unclear situation on the ground, casualty figures provided by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) highlighted the gravity of the conflict. Casualties included numerous Druze fighters and civilians, alongside significant losses among government forces and their tribal opponents, underscoring the deepening crisis in the region.