Israel has conducted airstrikes against Syrian government forces entering the predominantly Druze city of Suweida, following two days of intense sectarian violence that has reportedly resulted in at least 200 casualties. The clashes have erupted between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes since Sunday, prompting fears of broader unrest in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing concerns for the local Druze population, ordered the strikes to prevent government forces from using military assets against civilians.
An official from Syria's foreign ministry condemned the Israeli strikes, asserting that they resulted in fatalities among both armed forces and civilians. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first-time Syrian government forces have entered Suweida since President Bashar al-Assad was ousted by Islamist-led rebels in December. There is considerable skepticism within minority communities, like the Druze, towards the interim government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, leading to resistance against the calls to formalize security forces.
As violence escalated, the Syrian interior ministry declared an absence of order and initiated intervention. After an initial ceasefire was declared on Tuesday by the Syrian defense minister, local leaders urged compliance while Druze spiritual leadership called for resistance against government forces. Allegations of summary executions and acts of vandalism by Syrian troops surfaced, further aggravating tensions in the area.
Residents described the situation as "catastrophic," with reports of indiscriminate gunfire prompting many to seek refuge outside the city despite curfews in place. The violence initially sparked from a robbery incident involving a Druze merchant, which escalated into wider confrontations as tribes engaged each other, culminating in significant fatalities.
Through the conflict, Israel's military has reiterated its commitment to protect the Druze, emphasizing the group's close ties to Israeli communities. The United States has urged Israel to finalize any military operations against Syrian forces, indicating a growing concern over the broader regional implications of this volatile situation. Responses from the Syrian government regarding the latest events are yet to be issued, as the conflict's ramifications continue to unfold.
