The UK-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights reports that at least 594 people have died in sectarian violence in southern Syria’s Suweida province, with significant losses among the Druze community. Israeli airstrikes added to escalating tensions as humanitarian crises unfold.
Sectarian Violence Claims Nearly 600 Lives in Southern Syria
Sectarian Violence Claims Nearly 600 Lives in Southern Syria
Recent clashes in Suweida province between Druze and Bedouin communities lead to severe casualties, drawing international attention.
At least 594 individuals have lost their lives due to severe clashes that erupted recently between the Druze and Bedouin communities in southern Syria's Suweida province, contributing to a disturbing trend of violence with sectarian undertones, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
The monitoring group, based in the UK, highlights that 300 members of the Druze minority—including 154 civilians and 146 fighters—have been killed, with reports of 83 individuals being executed by government forces. Additionally, 257 government personnel and 18 Bedouin fighters perished in the conflict, while three Bedouin civilians reportedly fell victim to Druze fighters.
Disputes between the Bedouin and Druze communities sparked the violent outburst that began on Sunday. Despite claims of nearly 600 fatalities, alternate security sources report a lower count of about 300. Moreover, another monitoring body, the Syrian Network for Human Rights, confirmed at least 169 civilian deaths.
An uneasy calm prevailed on Thursday, following the withdrawal of government forces from the predominantly Druze city of Suweida. Residents reported extensive damage, looting, and distressed scenes with bodies discovered in the streets. The government had previously sent convoys of fighters to the city, citing restoration of order; however, their presence led to heightened tensions and further violence.
On Wednesday evening, the Syrian government announced a ceasefire as it prepared for a strategic withdrawal. However, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri, a prominent Druze leader, denounced the ceasefire, urging continued resistance against what he termed “gangs”—a reference to government forces.
Meanwhile, local dynamics are complicated by Israel's involvement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted Israel's ongoing interest in the region, stating that interventions were necessary to safeguard the Druze community and ensure Syrian military forces do not advance south of Damascus. Recent Israeli strikes have severely impacted the Syrian ministry of defense and vicinity of the presidential palace, marking an alarming intensification of regional hostilities.
In a televised address, Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, condemned Israeli aggression, framing it as an attempt to disrupt national stability. He vowed to uphold the rights and safety of the Druze minority amidst the escalating strife.
The complex landscape is further shaped by the existence of significant Druze populations in Israel and the Golan Heights, creating geopolitical ramifications as these communities navigate their allegiances. The ongoing violence has led to substantial displacement among Bedouin civilians, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.
