Latest news with #Laithal-Balaous
Roya News
03-08-2025
- Politics
- Roya News
Two killed in first breach of Sweida ceasefire in Syria
Groups affiliated with Hikmat al-Hijri launched a series of attacks on villages in western Sweida this week, using heavy and medium weaponry as well as mortar shells, according to state media and local sources. The Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported that the village of Tal Hadid was among the targets, with the assault resulting in the deaths of two individuals, one from the Internal Security Forces and another civilian from Sweida. The escalation comes despite ongoing efforts by the Syrian government to restore order and initiate a national reconciliation process in the province. Authorities accuse these groups of obstructing de-escalation initiatives and pushing separatist agendas that do not align with the will of the majority in Sweida. Officials say the groups have created a climate of fear, suppressing dissent and attempting to dominate local discourse through force. One notable incident on July 31 involved the armed robbery of the Syrian Commercial Bank in Shahba, where attackers stole government funds meant for the salaries of public employees and retirees, severely disrupting salary disbursement. In response, Sheikh Laith al-Balaous, speaking on behalf of the prominent local initiative "Madafat al-Karama", emphasized the province's commitment to Syrian unity and sovereignty. He also criticized Hijri's recent decision to block ministerial delegations from entering the province, calling it a significant barrier to progress on both humanitarian and security fronts. Tensions in Sweida have been steadily rising. Last month, clashes between groups and Bedouin tribes led to multiple deaths and mass civilian displacement. While Syrian army units briefly entered the city to confront the violence, they withdrew on July 16 following a ceasefire agreement negotiated with Druze religious leaders. Interior Ministry forces have since redeployed as part of the truce's first phase. This phase includes halting tribal fighting, releasing detainees, and working toward restoring stability. Despite these steps, renewed violence suggests the road to peace in Sweida remains fraught with obstacles.
Asharq Al-Awsat
03-05-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Syrian Presidency Condemns Israeli Airstrike Near Presidential Palace as Dangerous Escalation
The Syrian presidency on Friday denounced an Israeli airstrike near the presidential palace in Damascus, calling it a 'dangerous escalation' and a continuation of reckless behavior aimed at destabilizing the country and undermining national unity. In a statement carried by state news agency SANA, the presidency condemned the strike 'in the strongest terms,' describing it as an assault on state institutions and a violation of Syria's sovereignty. 'This aggression reflects ongoing reckless actions designed to exacerbate security crises and threaten the unity of the Syrian people,' the statement read. The presidency urged the international community and Arab nations to support Syria in resisting what it labeled 'hostile acts' by Israel, which it said flagrantly violate international law. It called for unified Arab positions to confront Israeli 'aggression' and defend the rights of Arab peoples. 'Syria will not compromise its sovereignty or security,' the presidency said, vowing to pursue all available means to protect its people. It also reiterated its commitment to national dialogue and reform efforts, stressing that the country remains on a path of reconstruction despite mounting challenges. The Israeli airstrike came amid a fragile return to calm in Druze-majority areas surrounding Damascus, which had experienced unrest in recent days. Tensions in neighborhoods like Ashrafiyat Sahnaya and Jaramana had flared following the leak of an audio recording allegedly featuring a Druze cleric making derogatory remarks about Islam. The incident sparked violent clashes between armed groups, resulting in casualties. Local leaders and Syrian authorities have since worked to stabilize the situation. Sheikh Laith al-Balaous, a prominent Druze figure and head of the Dignity Forum armed group, said calm had returned to the troubled suburbs after security forces entered the areas and took control. 'We've restored order in Sahnaya, Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, and Jaramana. Security forces are now in control, and residents are reporting a return to normal,' Balaous told Asharq Al-Awsat. Authorities have also struck an agreement with community leaders in Jaramana to disarm local factions and reinforce the presence of security forces. Heavy weapons were handed over, and security checkpoints around the city were bolstered, according to Colonel Hussam al-Tahan, head of Damascus Countryside Security. In southern Syria's Suwayda province, the local Druze leadership reached an agreement with the government to expand the role of the Ministry of Interior and security forces using local personnel. Plans are underway to secure key towns and the Suwayda-Damascus highway, while efforts continue to prevent further unrest in the region. Security officials say more than 700 fighters from local factions have joined General Security, with 1,500 more applying. A new military brigade for Suwayda under the Defense Ministry is reportedly being considered. Meanwhile, Syria TV reported that a drone strike targeted a farm west of Suwayda city, killing at least three people.
