Latest news with #SyrianInternalSecurityForces
Shafaq News
4 days ago
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Syria's Suwayda: Intense clashes ongoing
Shafaq News - Suwayda Armed clashes broke out in the Tel Hadeed area in the western countryside of Suwayda, southern Syria, between local armed groups and tribal factions, Shafaq News correspondent reported on Sunday. The confrontations, still ongoing, reportedly started after tribal factions refused to withdraw from the area, and involved the use of indirect artillery fire, mortars, and heavy machine guns. Meanwhile, Syrian state broadcaster Al-Ikhbariya cited a security source saying that 'outlaws' armed groups attacked Syrian Internal Security Forces in the city, resulting in the death of one officer and injuries to others. Western Suwayda has witnessed recurring tensions in recent months due to disputes between local armed groups and tribal factions over influence and control of strategic sites, with no lasting solution yet in place to resolve the conflicts.
Leaders
19-07-2025
- Politics
- Leaders
Syria Deploys New Force to Quell Deadly Clashes in South
The Syrian presidency announced plans to deploy a new military force aimed at halting the deadly sectarian clashes between Bedouin and Druze fighters in southern Syria, after violence escalated, particularly near the city of Sweida. Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa's office urged 'all parties to exercise restraint' on Friday, following reports indicating that nearly 600 people have died since the violence erupted on Sunday. Residents accused government troops of killing Druze civilians and conducting extrajudicial executions in the area. International Involvement and Ceasefire Agreement In response to the escalating conflict, Israel struck targets in Syria to compel government troops to withdraw from Sweida province. On Friday, US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack announced that Israel and Syria had reached a ceasefire agreement. He stated on X that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sharaa 'have agreed to a ceasefire,' which has been supported by Syria's neighbors, Turkey and Jordan. Ambassador Barrack emphasized the need for unity among the Druze, Bedouins, and Sunnis. He urged these groups to 'put down their weapons and together with other minorities build a new and united Syrian identity in peace and prosperity with its neighbors.' Limited Entry of Security Forces Shortly before the announcement of the military deployment, an Israeli official revealed that Israel had agreed to allow a limited entry of Syrian Internal Security Forces personnel into Sweida for 48 hours, with the aim to protect Druze civilians 'in light of the ongoing instability.' Sweida's predominantly Druze community follows a unique faith derived from Shia Islam. This community harbors deep distrust toward the current jihadist-led government in Damascus. A BBC correspondent in the Syrian capital reported that sectarian hatred against the Druze is spreading across the country. Earlier this week, UN human rights chief Volker Türk reported credible allegations of widespread violations and abuses in Sweida. These include summary executions and arbitrary killings. Türk identified members of the security forces, individuals affiliated with the interim government, and local Druze and Bedouin armed groups as alleged perpetrators. He stated, 'This bloodshed and the violence must stop,' adding that 'those responsible must be held to account.' Sharaa Vows Justice In a televised address on Thursday, Sharaa vowed to hold the perpetrators accountable, emphasizing that protecting the Druze community would be a 'priority.' 'We will hold accountable those who transgressed and abused our Druze people because they are under the protection and responsibility of the state,' he stated. Moreover, Sharaa also blamed 'outlaw groups,' claiming their leaders 'rejected dialogue for many months.' As the situation in southern Syria remains tense, the deployment of a new military force and the call for a ceasefire offer a glimmer of hope. The international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings peace and stability to the region. Short link : Post Views: 16
