Syria’s armed Bedouin clans have withdrawn from the Druze-majority city of Sweida after week-long clashes, following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The withdrawal brought a cautious calm to the area, with humanitarian aid convoys on their way.
The clashes between militias of the Druze religious minority and Sunni Muslim clans killed hundreds and threatened Syria’s fragile post-war transition. Israel also launched dozens of airstrikes in Sweida province, targeting government forces who had sided with the Bedouins.
The fighting sparked a series of targeted sectarian attacks against the Druze community, followed by revenge attacks against the Bedouins. Humanitarian aid has been deployed to address power cuts and shortages in the province, which left over 128,000 people displaced during the clashes.
Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa urged the Bedouins to leave the city, saying they “cannot replace the role of the state in handling the country’s affairs and restoring security.” The Bedouin fighters blamed the Druze factions loyal to spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri for harming their families.
The U.N. International Organization for Migration reported 128,571 people displaced during the clashes, including 43,000 on Saturday alone. Washington’s special envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, called for an immediate ceasefire and peace dialogue to address the crisis.
The recent clashes have made many Druze in the area skeptical about Damascus’ new leadership and peaceful coexistence. The situation remains volatile, with concerns about sectarian tensions and government accountability.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/syrias-armed-bedouins-withdrawn-druze-majority-city-after-123901668