Title: Armed Bedouin Clans Withdraw from Suwayda Amid Ceasefire and Ongoing Tensions
In a significant development, armed Bedouin clans have declared their withdrawal from the Druze-majority city of Suwayda following a week of intense clashes and a ceasefire brokered by the United States. The violent confrontations between Druze fighters and Sunni Bedouin clans have resulted in over 250 fatalities, raising concerns about Syria’s already delicate post-war situation.
The conflict has escalated further with Israel conducting numerous air strikes in the southern province of Suwayda, targeting government forces that had aligned with the Bedouins. The fighting has also sparked a wave of sectarian violence against the Druze community, leading to retaliatory attacks against the Bedouins.
Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, perceived as more favorable towards the Bedouins, has made attempts to reach out to the Druze community while simultaneously criticizing the actions of its fighters. He urged the Bedouin clans to exit the city, emphasizing that they “cannot assume the responsibilities of the state in managing the country’s affairs and restoring security.”
While many armed Bedouins and their supporters have cleared the city, a contingent remains on the outskirts of Suwayda. Government security forces and military police are now deployed to oversee their departure from the entire province.
The Bedouin fighters have attributed the violence to Druze factions loyal to spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, accusing them of endangering Bedouin families. Meanwhile, the Syrian government has initiated the evacuation of Bedouin families trapped in Suwayda. Reports indicate that the government coordinated with local officials to arrange for coaches to transport approximately 1,500 Bedouins out of the city.
Interior Minister Ahmad al-Dalati communicated with the SANA news agency, noting that this initiative would also facilitate the return of displaced civilians from Suwayda, as hostilities have significantly decreased and efforts for a lasting ceasefire are underway. However, further details regarding the evacuation and its connection to broader agreements remain unclear, especially following unsuccessful negotiations for a prisoner exchange deal.
This latest turn of events highlights the ongoing complexities and challenges facing Syria as it navigates its post-war landscape, underscoring the need for comprehensive solutions to restore peace and stability in the region.
