Why it matters:
The violence between Druze factions and Golani-linked forces highlights the continued failure of Syria’s transitional government to foster national cohesion. The country remains plagued by instability and sectarian tensions.
The big picture:
The Syrian Interior Ministry confirmed that 30 people were killed and 100 wounded during intense fighting in Suwayda, a southwestern province with a significant Druze population.
Key points:
- Local media reported renewed clashes in Sweida, including a large-scale assault on villages in the western outskirts of the province. Hayat Tahrir al-Sham militants reportedly used drones and mortar rounds.
- Syrian government forces deployed heavy equipment from Damascus in an apparent move against Druze groups in the area.
- Druze factions reportedly seized control of two strategic locations, Al-Tira and Al-Hazm.
- Several kidnapped Druze residents from the Al-Maqous neighborhood were released as part of peace efforts, with negotiations continuing between local sheikhs and tribal leaders.
Hossein Amiri
