Syrian forces take control of Sweida to end deadly clashes

In southern Syria, renewed fighting erupted between Druze militias and Sunni Bedouin tribes in Sweida city, leading to significant casualties and the displacement of thousands. The violence started following an armed robbery of a Druze man, triggering retaliatory kidnappings and clashes. By recent reports, nearly 100 individuals were killed, prompting the Syrian government to intervene. On Tuesday, government forces entered the city and imposed a curfew to restore order. They aimed to separate the conflicting parties and secure the area, despite mixed reactions from Druze leaders regarding the presence of national troops. The situation escalated further as tensions rose due to historical grievances between the Druze community and the Sunni Bedouins, alongside concerns about the government's motives and actions during the clashes. Compounded by international implications, Israel launched airstrikes against Syrian military targets in defense of the Druze minority, signaling a complex interplay of local and regional dynamics at play in this volatile region, and raising fears of an ongoing cycle of violence. The Druze religious sect, largely residing in Sweida, has sought to maintain its autonomy but faces significant challenges amidst Syria’s post-civil war landscape, where trust in government authorities remains fragile and fears of sectarian-based conflict linger.