Here’s what you need to know:
- Ceasefire: A truce has been brokered between Druze armed groups and government forces.
- Withdrawal: Syrian forces are pulling back from Sweida.
- Revenge Attacks: Reports of Druze militants attacking Sunni Bedouin communities.
- Mediation: The ceasefire deal was mediated by the United States, Turkey, and Arab countries.
- Israeli Involvement: Israel struck the Syrian Defense Ministry, claiming to protect the Druze minority.
Syrian Forces Retreat: What Happened in Sweida?
After days of intense clashes, Syrian government forces have begun withdrawing from Sweida, a province largely populated by the Druze minority. This move comes after a ceasefire agreement was reached to halt the escalating violence. But why were they fighting in the first place?
The conflict initially sparked from a series of tit-for-tat kidnappings and attacks between local Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druze armed factions. When government forces intervened, the situation quickly spiraled out of control, leading to direct confrontations with the Druze militias.
Ceasefire Deal: Who’s Behind It?
The ceasefire agreement was not a solo effort. The United States, Turkey, and several Arab countries played a crucial role in mediating the deal. According to Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, Druze factions and clerics have been appointed to maintain internal security in Sweida.
Israel’s Role: Protecting the Druze?
The conflict in Sweida has drawn in neighboring Israel, which launched airstrikes on the Syrian Defense Ministry headquarters in Damascus. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that these actions were taken to protect the Druze community. But is this the whole picture?
Netanyahu has vowed to maintain a demilitarized zone in southern Syria and protect the Druze community, which also has a significant population within Israel. He emphasized that the ceasefire was achieved due to Israel’s intense strikes on government forces.
Revenge Attacks and Displacement
While the ceasefire is largely holding, there are reports of revenge attacks by Druze militants on Sunni Bedouin communities. State media indicates that these attacks have led to a wave of displacement, further destabilizing the region. This is a dangerous development, as it could reignite sectarian tensions.
The Druze Community: Caught in the Middle
The Druze community has found itself in a precarious position amidst the ongoing conflict. Historically, the Druze have been divided over their approach to the Syrian government. The recent violence has further exacerbated these divisions, leaving the community vulnerable.
The Druze religious sect has roots dating back to the 10th century, originating as an offshoot of Ismailism, a branch of Shiite Islam. With over half of the world’s Druze population residing in Syria, their fate is closely tied to the country’s stability.
What’s Next for Sweida?
The ceasefire in Sweida is a fragile one. Whether it holds will depend on several factors, including the ability of Druze factions and clerics to maintain internal security, and the willingness of all parties to refrain from further violence. The situation remains volatile, and the future of Sweida hangs in the balance.
According to Issam al-Reis, a senior military advisor with Etana, the lack of “effective state-led negotiations” could further divide the Druze community and the Sunni Bedouins. This highlights the urgent need for a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to resolving the underlying issues.
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