Sweida, Syria – July 15, 2025 –
The Syrian army has deployed units into the southern province of Sweida, a predominantly Druze area, following days of deadly clashes between local Druze fighters and Bedouin tribes that have left dozens dead and scores wounded. The intervention comes as the Syrian government seeks to quell spiraling violence that has seen the closure of vital highways and widespread disruption.
The unrest, which began on Sunday, July 13, was reportedly triggered by a robbery on the Damascus-Sweida highway, escalating into a cycle of kidnappings and retaliatory attacks between the two communities. Initial reports indicated at least 37 fatalities, a figure that has since climbed to nearly 100 according to some monitoring groups, including Druze fighters, Bedouin tribesmen, and some Syrian security personnel. The clashes have primarily centered in the al-Maqous neighborhood of Sweida city and have spread to surrounding villages.
The Syrian Ministry of Defense announced on Monday that its forces, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior, had begun “rapid deployment to end the clashes decisively, provide safe corridors for civilians, and uphold the legal duty to protect the population.” An AFP correspondent reported seeing Syrian forces taking control of the Druze village of Al-Mazraa and advancing towards Sweida city.
However, the Syrian army’s presence has been met with a mixed reception. While some local leaders and the provincial governor have called for state intervention to restore order, influential Druze spiritual leaders, including Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, have expressed “rejection of the entry” of general security forces into the province, demanding “international protection” instead. Videos circulating online, though unverified, reportedly show armed men affiliated with Druze leaders arresting and assaulting security and army personnel.
This latest surge in violence follows previous deadly clashes in April and May, which also saw significant casualties and led to agreements where Druze fighters were largely responsible for local security within the province. The current escalation underscores the fragile security situation in Sweida and the complex dynamics at play between the Syrian government, local communities, and various armed groups.
The Damascus-Sweida highway, a critical lifeline for residents, remains closed, and the province has experienced power outages. Humanitarian concerns are growing, with emergency services struggling to reach the wounded amidst the ongoing crossfire. The Syrian Ministry of Interior acknowledged the “lack of state institutions” as a significant factor in the escalating tensions.
As of Tuesday morning, reports indicate that truce talks are underway between Sweida’s notables and representatives from the Syrian general security forces and the defense ministry, aiming to find a resolution to the escalating conflict. The situation remains volatile, with fears of wider sectarian retribution and further destabilization in southern Syria.
