In the aftermath of Syria’s civil war, sectarian violence has erupted once more, with clashes between Bedouin groups and militias from the Druse minority resulting in over 50 deaths, according to local health sources and rights organizations. This unrest, which has persisted for two days in the southern province of Sweida, poses significant challenges for the newly established government led by President Ahmed al-Shara. The government has struggled to assert its authority since the removal of Bashar al-Assad's regime in December.
Reports indicate that more than 150 people suffered injuries during the violent confrontations. Among the deceased are at least two children, as noted by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based monitoring body. The Syrian government has urged for calm amidst the escalating violence and has deployed military forces in a bid to restore order and provide safe passage for civilians caught in the conflict.
A defense ministry statement on social media emphasized the necessity for a "quick and decisive" resolution to the ongoing clashes. Tragically, at least eighteen soldiers tasked with quelling the unrest were killed on Monday, underscoring the harsh reality of the situation as the government confronts persistent ethnic and religious tensions in the region.
