Tensions Escalate as Israel Strikes Syrian Forces Amid Druze Clashes

The conflict in southern Syria intensifies as Israel bombards government forces entering Suweida after violent clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes leave around 100 dead. Despite a declared ceasefire by Syria’s defense minister, local leaders urge resistance against the government’s presence.

In an escalating conflict sparked by deadly sectarian violence, Israel has bombed Syrian government forces entering the predominantly Druze city of Suweida. This development follows two days of intense clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribes that have reportedly claimed about 100 lives.

In response to this surge in violence, Syria's defense minister announced a ceasefire early Tuesday, stating that an agreement had been finalized with local dignitaries to allow security forces to advance into Suweida. Nonetheless, resistance is still brewing among local Druze leaders, with one spiritual figure calling on fighters to stand firm against governmental incursions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed his decision to target military forces and weaponry in the region. He emphasized the importance of protecting the Druze community in Syria, given their longstanding connections with their counterparts in Israel and the Golan Heights. This intervention marks a significant shift as Syrian government forces had not entered Suweida since the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad by Islamist factions in late 2011.

The Druze community, a religious minority in Syria, remains skeptical of the ruling authorities, despite claims of protection from the government. Until this recent escalation, Suweida had largely been under the control of local Druze militias, who had resisted pressure to ally with the Syrian Army. As violence continues, the fragile coexistence in this critical region faces further jeopardy.