Syrian Forces Withdraw from Sweida after Deadly Druze Clashes

Syrian government forces have largely withdrawn from the southern province of Sweida following days of intense clashes with militias linked to the Druze minority, after a ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States, Turkey, and Arab countries. Under the agreement, Druze factions and clerics have been appointed to maintain internal security in the region, marking a strategic shift in the interim government's security policy as announced by Syrian interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The fighting threatened Syria's post-war transition and led to Israeli airstrikes on Syrian military targets, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledging to keep southern Syria demilitarized and protect the Druze community. Despite the truce, reports emerged of Druze militants launching revenge attacks on Sunni Bedouin communities, causing displacement, as Bedouin clans had previously fought alongside government forces. The ceasefire's durability remains uncertain, especially given the internal divisions within the Druze community and continuing tensions among local groups. The withdrawal signifies a temporary halt to military operations in Sweida but leaves the area with ongoing security and humanitarian challenges.