Syria's interim president Ahmed al-Sharaa has asserted a firm stance on safeguarding the Druze minority amidst ongoing sectarian violence in Suweida province, following recent Israeli military actions that have heightened tensions in the region.
Syria's President Pledges to Safeguard Druze Amid Rising Sectarian Violence
Syria's President Pledges to Safeguard Druze Amid Rising Sectarian Violence
Amid escalating sectarian clashes, Syrian leadership emphasizes commitment to protect Druze communities.
In his first televised address after Israel's air strikes targeted government positions, Al-Sharaa described protecting the Druze as a priority, acknowledging the challenges faced due to recent violence that has left over 350 dead since the clashes began. Initial reports indicate that government forces have commenced a withdrawal under a ceasefire with Druze leaders, yet uncertainties linger regarding its sustainability.
The president's declaration comes after a period of intense fighting between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, prompting military intervention and an increase in hostilities. He emphasized that Syrians are prepared to confront war, dismissing fears and highlighting the importance of national unity.
"The Druze are a fundamental part of the fabric of this nation," Al-Sharaa stated, reiterating that no external influences would be allowed to exploit the situation. He confirmed that the government would pass security responsibilities in Suweida to local religious leaders and factions, voicing a commitment to accountability for any violations against the Druze community.
In a parallel statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked on Israel's support for the Druze, stating its military actions are focused on eliminating threats to its border and protecting its citizens. The Israeli military has confirmed strikes on Syrian military positions in response to perceived aggression towards Druze neighborhoods.
The US has also responded, announcing coordinated efforts among involved parties to address the ongoing crisis. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, civilian casualties are alarmingly high amidst the violence, demanding urgent attention to restore peace.
As the conflict continues to evolve, the atmosphere remains charged with uncertainty, with both local and international stakeholders closely monitoring developments.
The president's declaration comes after a period of intense fighting between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes, prompting military intervention and an increase in hostilities. He emphasized that Syrians are prepared to confront war, dismissing fears and highlighting the importance of national unity.
"The Druze are a fundamental part of the fabric of this nation," Al-Sharaa stated, reiterating that no external influences would be allowed to exploit the situation. He confirmed that the government would pass security responsibilities in Suweida to local religious leaders and factions, voicing a commitment to accountability for any violations against the Druze community.
In a parallel statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remarked on Israel's support for the Druze, stating its military actions are focused on eliminating threats to its border and protecting its citizens. The Israeli military has confirmed strikes on Syrian military positions in response to perceived aggression towards Druze neighborhoods.
The US has also responded, announcing coordinated efforts among involved parties to address the ongoing crisis. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, civilian casualties are alarmingly high amidst the violence, demanding urgent attention to restore peace.
As the conflict continues to evolve, the atmosphere remains charged with uncertainty, with both local and international stakeholders closely monitoring developments.
