New ceasefire takes effect in Syria’s Sweida following deadly clashes, Israeli airstrikes

A fragile ceasefire has taken effect in Syria’s southern province of Sweida after four days of intense clashes between Syrian government forces, Druze fighters, and Bedouin tribes, which left at least 302 people dead. The truce, brokered by Druze spiritual leaders and Syria’s interim government, includes the withdrawal of troops, establishment of local police checkpoints, regulation of heavy weapons, and reinstatement of government institutions under Syrian law. However, internal divisions remain, as key Druze cleric Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri rejected the deal and vowed to continue resistance.

The violence was triggered by an assault on a Druze man by Bedouin tribesmen, escalating into widespread conflict. Hours before the ceasefire, Israel launched airstrikes on Damascus, targeting key government and military sites, citing protection for the Druze community. The strikes caused heavy damage and civilian casualties, drawing strong condemnation from Syrian authorities, who warned of broader instability. Sweida, a historically quiet Druze-majority region, is now at the center of rising tensions, with the ceasefire’s durability uncertain.

Credit: CGTN