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What is happening in As-Suwayda... Sectarian clashes and threats to security
The As-Suwayda governorate in southern Syria has witnessed a dangerous escalation in violence, with armed clashes between militant groups resulting in at least 37 deaths and more than 50 injuries. Authorities are continuing efforts to contain the crisis and restore stability.
Details of the incident:
The unrest began after a robbery targeting a Druze young man on the highway between Damascus and As-Suwayda a few days ago, leading to severe tensions in the region. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and activists, the events have killed 27 Druze individuals, including two children, along with 10 members of the Bedouin community. More than 50 people have been wounded.
Security measures and government response:
In response to the escalating tension, the Syrian Ministry of Defense sent military reinforcements to the area, confirming that its units would intervene directly to halt the violence and restore security, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior. Brigadier Nizar al-Hariri, deputy head of internal security for police affairs in As-Suwayda, explained that the clashes stemmed from reactions to a theft incident involving a person from the commercial sector, followed by mutual abductions.
Developments on the ground:
The region has experienced an escalation by gunmen from Bedouin tribes who launched attacks on Druze villages on the western and northern outskirts of the city. Witnesses indicated that the violence started after a wave of kidnappings, including the kidnapping of a Druze trader last Friday on the highway.
Implications and conclusions:
This is the first time As-Suwayda has seen such significant internal sectarian fighting, amid fears that violence could escalate if not addressed urgently. Druze researcher Rayan Maaref expressed concern that the deteriorating situation could lead to a bloodbath and a cycle of ongoing violence.
Security deterioration and causes of the crisis:
The Ministry of Interior pointed out that the absence of effective official institutions in the region has worsened the security situation and that the local community has failed to control the crisis. It emphasized that direct military intervention is the solution to stabilize the situation and impose order, calling on all parties to cooperate with security forces and exercise restraint.
