Post-Violence Serenity: Sweida Province in Syria Sees Fragile Calm After Week of Deadly Unrest

An uneasy calm has returned to Sweida province in southern Syria after a week of violent clashes that resulted in over 1,000 deaths. Residents reported a tense but quiet atmosphere, although people still faced severe shortages of water and electricity. Hospitals are overwhelmed, unable to function properly due to the ongoing crisis.

The violence erupted from a disagreement between a Bedouin tribesman and a member of the Druze community, a minority in Syria. This led to government intervention, which escalated into chaos. Israeli airstrikes were also involved, targeting military positions in southern Syria to protect the Druze.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), the recent violence displaced around 128,000 people. They highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian situation, with severe shortages of medical supplies and basic necessities.

Amid the turmoil, humanitarian organizations like the Syrian Arab Red Crescent announced aid efforts, sending 32 trucks filled with food, water, and medical supplies to Sweida.

Recent reports indicate a lack of trust in the Syrian government’s ability to manage tensions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of accountability among security forces, warning that failure to address grievances could lead to further violence.

In the past, conflict in Syria has often been fueled by sectarian division and tribal tensions. The current situation draws parallels to earlier outbreaks of violence, such as the mass killings in March, which raised alarms about the stability of the new Syrian government, formed after the fall of the Assad regime. The international community, including the EU, expressed shock at the recent casualties, urging all sides to halt violence and protect civilians.

The future of Sweida remains uncertain. While a ceasefire has been declared, local leaders stress the need for lasting dialogue to foster peace and security.



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