Amid mounting sectarian violence in Syria's Suweida region, President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the deployment of a new military force to restore order. The UN has reported significant human rights violations, urging accountability as regional dynamics evolve with proposed ceasefires.
Syrian Presidency Deploys Forces to Avert Escalating Sectarian Violence
Syrian Presidency Deploys Forces to Avert Escalating Sectarian Violence
A new military presence will be sent to the south of Syria to curb clashes between Bedouin and Druze factions in Suweida, as nearly 600 lives have been lost amid escalating violence.
In a bid to quell the deadly sectarian violence that has erupted in southern Syria, the presidency has announced the deployment of a new military force. The clashes between Bedouin and Druze fighters near the city of Suweida have left nearly 600 casualties since violence flared last Sunday, prompting urgent calls for restraint.
President Ahmed al-Sharaa's office expressed grave concern over the situation, urging all involved parties to refrain from further hostilities. Reports suggest that government troops in Suweida have been accused of targeting Druze civilians and employing extrajudicial measures.
In a striking development, Israel has reportedly conducted strikes against Syrian military targets, aiming to compel troop withdrawals from the volatile Suweida province. The U.S. ambassador to Turkey later revealed that a ceasefire agreement had ostensibly been reached between Israel and Syria. Ambassador Tom Barrack called for Druze, Bedouins, and Sunnis to lay down their arms and collaborate toward establishing a peaceful and united Syrian identity.
While both Israel and Syria have yet to publicly confirm the ceasefire, it is also noted that Israeli officials permitted the entry of Syrian Internal Security Forces to Suweida for a limited period to safeguard Druze civilians amidst the ongoing turmoil.
The Druze community, predominantly residing in Suweida, practices a distinct faith rooted in Shia Islam and remains largely distrustful of the prevailing jihadist-led government. The escalation of sectarian tensions has raised alarms, as the United Nations human rights chief reported credible allegations of widespread abuse, including summary killings.
UN Chief Volker Türk emphasized the urgent need for the systemic violence to cease, calling for accountability of those responsible for the bloodshed. As Sharaa publicly addressed the nation, he pledged to prioritize the protection of the Druze community and hold accountable any perpetrators involved in the ongoing violence.
In summary, the situation in Suweida is dire, with increasing casualties and reports of brutalities highlighting the urgent need for effective dialogue and action to prevent further conflict.
