Tensions Rise Again in Syria's Sweida Province

In Syria's Sweida province, a fragile peace shattered as fighting erupted once more between Druze armed groups and Bedouin tribes. This violence has forced tens of thousands from their homes, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. Government forces, which had pulled out following a shaky ceasefire, are now set to return, but negotiations have hit snags. The conflict began last Sunday when clashes broke out between Druze militias and local Sunni Bedouin tribes. Government forces stepped in, but instead of restoring order, they sided with the Bedouins against the Druze. Israel even joined the fray, launching airstrikes on Syrian forces in defense of the Druze community. The fighting left hundreds dead and homes burned. A truce, brokered by the U. S. , Turkey, and Arab countries, was announced Wednesday. Under this deal, Druze factions were supposed to maintain security as government forces withdrew. But by Thursday night, fighting flared up again. State media reported Druze militias retaliating against Bedouin communities, displacing over 1, 000 families. The violence has crippled essential services like water, electricity, and healthcare. Aid groups like the U. N. and the White Helmets are struggling to reach those in need. Meanwhile, Bedouin groups from other parts of Syria are joining the fight, vowing to crush Druze leaders they oppose. The Druze, a religious sect with roots in 10th-century Shiite Islam, have lived in Syria for centuries. While they mostly coexist with Sunni Bedouin tribes, tensions occasionally boil over. This time, a simple dispute at a checkpoint sparked a full-blown conflict. Experts say the Syrian government may have fueled the violence to shift power in the region. In Israel, home to a large Druze community, calls for intervention have risen. But Druze leaders in Lebanon reject Israeli involvement, fearing it could escalate the situation. They urge all sides to honor the ceasefire and seek peaceful solutions.