Syria Ceasefire Announced Amid Clashes Between Government Forces and Druze Militias

A new ceasefire has been announced in Syria by the government and leaders of the Druze minority, but its effectiveness is uncertain due to ongoing clashes between the two sides. The announcement came after days of violence that threatened to destabilize the country’s post-war transition and drew military intervention from neighboring Israel.

Convoys of government forces have begun withdrawing from the city of Sweida, but it remains unclear if the agreement will hold. A previous ceasefire announced Tuesday quickly fell apart, and a prominent Druze leader disavowed the new agreement.

Israel has continued to launch airstrikes in Damascus, escalating its campaign against the Druze minority and Islamist militants. The Israeli Defense Minister said the “painful blows have begun,” indicating that the country is prepared for further escalation if the message is not understood.

Reports of killings, looting, and destruction have surfaced in Druze areas, with at least 27 people reportedly killed in “field executions.” The violence has sparked widespread concern among the international community, including the US Secretary of State, who expressed concern about the situation and offered to help restore calm.

The ceasefire announcement has also raised concerns about the treatment of Druze minorities in Syria. Videos have surfaced of government-affiliated fighters forcibly shaving the mustaches of Druze sheikhs and stepping on their flags and pictures. The Druze community is deeply divided, with some members supporting the government and others fighting against it.

The situation remains volatile, with many Druze individuals fearing for the lives of their relatives in Sweida. The ceasefire announcement has brought a glimmer of hope, but its long-term effectiveness remains uncertain due to the ongoing tensions between the government and the Druze minority.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/syria-clashes-druze-israel-92a72655b85fba1d0b12cc36ffe2cef3