Clashes erupt in Sweida as Druze militia attack Syrian security forces

Syria has seen fresh clashes erupt as interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa's government struggles to maintain authority after the ousting of former President Bashar Assad in December. In the southern province of Sweida, conflicts have occurred between Druze armed groups and government-affiliated fighters, particularly after Druze factions launched attacks on Syrian security forces, resulting in casualties on both sides. These clashes have reignited tensions in a region already strained by conflicting allegiances and sectarian divisions, creating a challenging environment for local authorities trying to uphold a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis following months of violence in the area. Since the change in leadership, Sharaa's government has faced significant difficulty in consolidating control, with various ethnic and religious minorities, including the Druze, expressing skepticism about the government's Islamist leanings and its collaboration with militant groups. The past month saw increased violence and targeted sectarian attacks, which have led to the displacement of many residents, heightening fears of lasting instability in Sweida. In the north, clashes have been reported between government-affiliated forces and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in areas like Aleppo province, where both sides are attempting to manage a ceasefire agreement. However, tensions continue to simmer with accusations of miscommunication and unprovoked attacks from both sides, particularly following a barrage of rockets launched by the SDF, reportedly in retaliation to provocations by government troops. Israel's keen interest in southern Syria has also added another layer of complexity to the situation, as they conduct military operations targeting militant groups, citing security concerns for residents in the Golan Heights. The ongoing conflict reflects broader regional tensions and a fragile security environment, where both domestic and international actors play crucial roles in shaping events on the ground.