Syria’s government has announced a comprehensive ceasefire in the tumultuous southern province of Suwayda, a region that has seen heavy fighting between Druze and Bedouin armed groups and government forces, resulting in significant casualties.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Interior, it was confirmed that Syrian security forces have begun deploying within Suwayda, prompting heightened concerns over the volatile situation.
The Syrian presidency emphasized the urgency of the ceasefire in light of the critical circumstances affecting the country, highlighting a commitment to spare Syrian blood and preserve the unity of the territory and the safety of its citizens.
The presidency stated, “In response to national and humanitarian responsibilities, the Presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic announces a comprehensive and immediate ceasefire.”
Officials urged all parties involved to facilitate the implementation of the ceasefire effectively to enhance stability and end violence.
Earlier, U.S. Envoy Tom Barrack announced an uneasy truce between Israel and Syria, indicating that both nations had agreed to a ceasefire after several days of conflict characterized by air attacks and sectarian violence in the predominantly Druze region.
Barrack made this announcement on social media, aiming to secure peace between the neighboring countries and protecting the rights of various ethnic groups within Syria. He called upon the Druze, Bedouins, and Sunni communities to cease hostilities and work towards a unified Syrian identity.
The complexities of the situation are further illustrated by comments from an unnamed Israeli official, who confirmed that, amidst ongoing instability in southwestern Syria, Israel had consented to allow Syrian internal security forces to enter the Suwayda district for a limited time frame.
This diplomatic interference follows a series of Israeli airstrikes that occurred on Wednesday, targeting Syria’s Ministry of Defence in the capital, Damascus, and government forces in Suwayda. Israel’s justification for these strikes rests on the assertion that it was acting to protect the Druze minority in the region, where tensions have been palpable.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly supported the Druze, identifying them as “brothers” and highlighting their shared heritage between the communities in Israel and Syria.
The ceasefire agreement, facilitated by U.S., Turkish, and Arab mediators, was established following dialogues between Druze leaders and Syrian authorities on Wednesday. However, the agreement was overshadowed by continued Israeli air raids, which claimed the lives of at least three individuals and injured over thirty others.
In response to the Israeli actions, Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa asserted that the protection of Druze citizens and their rights would remain a top priority for the state. He stated that while Syria seeks to avoid conflict with Israel, the nation is prepared to resist and confront any acts of aggression.
Al-Sharaa’s remarks reflect Syria’s resolve to maintain its sovereignty and stability, particularly as the nation navigates the complexities of both internal and external pressures. The ceasefire remains a significant development in a region where ethnic tensions frequently culminate in violence.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen if the ceasefire can bring lasting peace to Suwayda and if it will effectively quell the violence that has plagued the province.
image source from：aljazeera
