Army initiates retreat from Sweida following brutal skirmishes (Syria) - Army initiates withdrawal from Suwaida following intense clashes
A violent clash between Druze armed groups, Bedouin tribal fighters, and Syrian government forces in the southern Syrian city of Suwayda and its surrounding areas has resulted in severe casualties since July 13, 2025. The conflict, marked by intense fighting and significant losses, has led to at least 169 deaths and over 200 injuries, including civilians such as women, children, and medical personnel.
Following days of intense fighting, the Syrian government announced a withdrawal of its forces from Suwayda on July 16, 2025, after reaching an agreement with local Druze leaders. The terms of the agreement include the withdrawal of the Syrian army after completing their mission to pursue "groups outside the law," the establishment of checkpoints managed by local police and internal security, the removal of weapons not under state control, the integration of Suwayda into the Syrian state, and the formation of a fact-finding committee to investigate crimes and human rights violations.
Israel's involvement in the conflict has been notable, with Israeli forces reportedly carrying out several airstrikes targeting groups in Suwayda during the clashes. These airstrikes have complicated the security situation and political dynamics, reflecting broader regional tensions. Israel had moved forces into Syrian territory earlier in December 2024 after the Assad government’s collapse, declaring previous border agreements void.
The UN Syria Commission has expressed deep alarm over the violence, urging all parties to de-escalate immediately, protect civilians, and respect human rights. The commission highlighted numerous killings, abductions, property destruction, and incitement fueling the conflict between Bedouin tribal forces and Druze armed groups, with additional involvement by the Syrian interim security and military forces, compounded by Israeli airstrikes.
The current status of the conflict involves a ceasefire, with a committee of government representatives and religious leaders of the Druze overseeing its implementation. However, the conflict remains highly volatile with considerable human suffering. Israel's military involvement via airstrikes has played a role in the dynamics, reflecting broader regional tensions, even as talks between Syria and Israel seek to reduce conflict.
Key parties and roles in the Suwayda conflict include the Druze armed groups, Bedouin tribal fighters, Syrian government forces, Israel, and the UN Syria Commission. The Druze armed groups are local militia fighting against Bedouin and Syrian government forces, demanding a full withdrawal of invading forces. The Bedouin tribal fighters are engaged in violent clashes against Druze groups and Syrian forces. The Syrian government forces were deployed to suppress armed groups but have agreed to withdraw under a negotiated ceasefire with local Druze leaders. Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting groups in Suwayda, and the UN Syria Commission calls for de-escalation, civilian protection, and respect of human rights amid the violence.
In conclusion, while the Syrian army has agreed to withdraw under a negotiated ceasefire with local Druze leaders to reduce hostilities, the conflict remains highly volatile with considerable human suffering. Israel's military involvement via airstrikes has played a role in the dynamics, reflecting broader regional tensions, even as talks between Syria and Israel seek to reduce conflict. The UN continues to urge restraint and protection for civilians caught in the fighting.
- Following the Syrian government's announced withdrawal from Suwayda on July 16, 2025, after a series of bloody fighting, American Senator Marco Rubio expressed concern about the volatile situation, stating, "The situation in Suwayda remains critical, and the international community must take action to ensure the integrity of Syria's territorial sovereignty and protect its people from further violence."
- As the conflict in Suwayda, Syria continues to unfold over the weekend, international politics and war-and-conflicts sections of general news are focusing on the negotiations between the Syrian Ministry of the Interior and the Druze leaders, aiming to prevent additional clashes and promote peace in the region.
