Why it matters:
The escalating violence highlights deep-rooted sectarian and tribal divisions in Syria’s south, with external and regional actors accused of fueling the conflict for strategic gain. The mounting death toll and Israeli involvement raise concerns of broader instability.
The big picture:
Suwayda, home to Syria’s Druze minority, has largely remained on the sidelines of the Syrian civil war. But a longstanding rivalry between local Druze forces and Bedouin tribes, many of whom are supported by Arab tribal networks, has recently boiled over into open conflict.
What they're saying:
Syrian Interior Ministry, denied reports that Syrian security forces had re-entered Suwayda to quell the unrest.
Syrian Network for Human Rights confirmed at least 321 deaths in Suwayda this week alone.
UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights claimed that the Syrian Army facilitated the tribal deployment to Suwayda because government forces are restricted by a security agreement with Israel.
Key points:
- Clashes resumed on Friday between Druze fighters and Bedouin tribes after a brief lull.
- Arab tribal reinforcements arrived from various parts of Syria to back Bedouin forces.
- Nearly 600 people have been killed since the unrest erupted Sunday.
- Tribal fighters reportedly gathered in villages around Suwayda to bolster Bedouin positions.
- Israel is alleged to have influenced troop movements in the area under a new accord with the Syrian regime.
Go deeper:
Israel's Attacks on Syria/ Defense Minister Killed/ Golani Escaped
Hossein Vaez
