After days of intense fighting, a fragile ceasefire has taken hold in Sweida, Syria’s southern province. The pact, brokered between the interim government and key Druze spiritual leaders, marks a tentative step toward restoring calm after fierce clashes involving government forces, Druze fighters, and Bedouin tribes. 😌
During four harrowing days of conflict, at least 248 people lost their lives, according to reports by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. With the ceasefire now in effect, Syrian interim government troops are beginning to withdraw, allowing local police to take charge of security and set up internal checkpoints.
The agreement outlines the return of army units to their barracks and calls for a joint monitoring committee, co-led by interim officials and Druze clerics, to ensure its smooth implementation. Sheikh Youssef Jarbouh, a leading spiritual figure among Syria’s Druze community, confirmed the terms and urged all sides to honor the deal, offering a glimmer of hope for enduring peace.
However, division remains. Influential Druze cleric Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri has rejected the agreement, vowing to continue what he describes as a "legitimate resistance" until Sweida is completely free of armed government forces.
Adding to the volatility, just hours before the ceasefire took effect, Israel launched a series of airstrikes on Damascus. Multiple missiles targeted key government and military sites, including the Syrian Army's General Command headquarters and the defense authority compound in Umayyad Square, with additional strikes near the Al-Shaab presidential palace. ⚡
This dramatic turn of events leaves the region on a knife-edge, as both hope and uncertainty intermingle in the aftermath of conflict. Observers remain watchful, hopeful that this ceasefire might finally pave the way toward lasting stability in Sweida.
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Ceasefire begins in Syria's Sweida after clashes, Israeli airstrikes
cgtn.com
