In a recent statement, the interim leader of Syria has outlined actions to support the country's Druze population amidst emerging sectarian tensions and violent clashes with Bedouin tribes.
Syria's Leader Pledges Protection for Druze Amid Renewed Violence and Israeli Strikes
Syria's Leader Pledges Protection for Druze Amid Renewed Violence and Israeli Strikes
Syrian interim president vows to safeguard Druze citizens as sectarian clashes escalate in Suweida province.
The government has aggressively pursued the restoration of order in Suweida, a predominantly Druze city, following confirmed Israeli airstrikes aimed at combating attacks on Druze citizens. This assertion follows considerable unrest, in which over 350 individuals have perished due to sectarian violence since Sunday, resulting in various international reactions, including military interventions.
Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, proclaimed his government's commitment to the welfare of Druze citizens after Israel launched airstrikes following violent clashes in Suweida province. In his first address since the strikes on Damascus, Sharaa highlighted that protecting the Druze minority was a primary focus, notably after reports emerged alleging that government forces had been implicated in the killing of Druze civilians.
While Syrian state media indicated a ceasefire might allow government forces to withdraw, residents in the region expressed doubt that peace would prevail. The governor, whose faction transitioned from opposition to power after the civil war, warned of the dangers of sectarian divisions and reiterated the government's resolve to maintain stability in the region.
The ongoing strife prompts international concern, particularly from Israel, which claims its military operations target the Syrian military and armed factions accused of threatening Druze communities. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized efforts to protect Israeli Druze citizens from violence nearing the border.
Despite the violence, al-Sharaa portrayed confidence, stating, "We are not among those who fear the war," evoking a history of resilience against adversity among Syrians. He conveyed that the authority for local security in Suweida would be transferred to local religious leaders and factions, underlining a strategy that emphasizes local governance amidst the turmoil.
As the situation remains precarious and leads to further diplomatic dialogues, including a response from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the international community continues to monitor the evolving dynamics in this volatile region, where regional stability hinges on overcoming underlying sectarian tensions.
Syria's interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, proclaimed his government's commitment to the welfare of Druze citizens after Israel launched airstrikes following violent clashes in Suweida province. In his first address since the strikes on Damascus, Sharaa highlighted that protecting the Druze minority was a primary focus, notably after reports emerged alleging that government forces had been implicated in the killing of Druze civilians.
While Syrian state media indicated a ceasefire might allow government forces to withdraw, residents in the region expressed doubt that peace would prevail. The governor, whose faction transitioned from opposition to power after the civil war, warned of the dangers of sectarian divisions and reiterated the government's resolve to maintain stability in the region.
The ongoing strife prompts international concern, particularly from Israel, which claims its military operations target the Syrian military and armed factions accused of threatening Druze communities. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized efforts to protect Israeli Druze citizens from violence nearing the border.
Despite the violence, al-Sharaa portrayed confidence, stating, "We are not among those who fear the war," evoking a history of resilience against adversity among Syrians. He conveyed that the authority for local security in Suweida would be transferred to local religious leaders and factions, underlining a strategy that emphasizes local governance amidst the turmoil.
As the situation remains precarious and leads to further diplomatic dialogues, including a response from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the international community continues to monitor the evolving dynamics in this volatile region, where regional stability hinges on overcoming underlying sectarian tensions.
