Middle East Syria in Crisis: Deadly Sectarian Clashes Threaten Stability

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Sectarian violence has erupted in southern Syria despite an immediate ceasefire declared by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Druze fighters reportedly expelled Bedouin gunmen from Suweida on Saturday, though fighting persists elsewhere, casting doubt on the ceasefire's effectiveness. Unverified reports suggest government forces are involved in attacks on the Druze, with more than 900 fatalities in the past week.

 

US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, condemned the violence, urging Damascus to halt the atrocities. He highlighted the need for authorities to prevent ISIS and other extremist groups from exploiting the chaos. Rubio called for justice against those responsible for war crimes, including any within the government's ranks.

 

The situation escalated as Israel, supporting the Druze, launched strikes on government targets in Damascus. The ceasefire agreement, part of a US-brokered pact, involves halting Israeli military actions if Druze civilians remain protected. Despite this, reports of ongoing gunfire and looting surfaced in Suweida.

 

Israel's foreign minister expressed scepticism about the Syrian government's commitment to defending minorities. Suweida’s Druze community, with its unique faith derived from Shia Islam, is wary of Damascus, exacerbating tensions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to shield the Druze due to their connections with Israeli citizens.

 

The conflict stems from long-standing tensions between Druze and Bedouin tribes, ignited by the abduction of a Druze merchant. The UK-based Syrian Observatory of Human Rights (SOHR) reports 940 deaths since last Sunday. UN human rights chief Volker Türk expressed concern over credible reports of widespread violations, including arbitrary killings.

 

Türk emphasised the need for accountability among all parties involved, including the government forces and local armed elements. In response, the Syrian leadership vowed to protect all minorities and ensure those responsible for violations face justice.

 

As violence spreads across Syria, the ceasefire remains fragile, with international intervention struggling to restore peace. The conflict underscores the complex dynamics of sectarian tensions in the region, posing challenges for both Syrian and international stakeholders seeking stability.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-07-21