Condemns Acts of Aggression Toward the Druze Community in Syria; Advocates for Permanent Abandonment of Violence - Syrian opposition leader Wadephul denounces violent attacks towards the Druze community in Syria, urging persistent halt to the ongoing violence.
The volatile situation in Syria continues to pose challenges, despite recent attempts at establishing a ceasefire. The most recent clashes, which erupted in southern Syria, particularly around Suwayda, serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing instability.
The ceasefire, mediated by the USA, was reached on Wednesday, only to collapse almost immediately due to renewed violence in the al-Maqwas neighborhood[1][4]. The clashes began over a personal incident involving a Druze man and escalated into factional violence between Druze militias and Bedouin fighters.
The Druze community, predominantly residing in Suwayda and certain suburbs of Damascus, has faced significant challenges during the conflict. They have managed to maintain some autonomy through their militias, but remain wary of external interventions. Israel has expressed concern for the Druze community's safety, with Israeli officials demanding that Syrian forces withdraw from Suwayda to allow the Druze to manage their affairs without interference[3]. However, many Druze in Syria have expressed discomfort with Israel's involvement, preferring local solutions[3].
The Federal Foreign Minister welcomed the ceasefire as "good news," but growing concern about the rights and security of minorities in Syria, such as Alawites, Druze, and Kurds, persists[5]. The Islamist government in Damascus is accused of not providing adequate protection for these groups[6].
International mediation is ongoing, with the Federal Government, along with European partners, ready to support the political process in Syria[7]. However, the specific involvement or actions taken by the USA in achieving a permanent ceasefire are not detailed[2].
In conclusion, the current situation in Syria remains precarious, with factional violence complicating efforts to achieve lasting peace. The Druze community's security is a significant concern, with both internal and external factors influencing their protection. International mediation is ongoing, but concrete actions and outcomes remain uncertain. All parties are expected to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and stop fighting. Reports suggest that at least 350 people were killed in the fighting, according to activists[1][4].
The European Union is committed to the following: supporting the political process in Syria, and addressing the ongoing concerns about the rights and security of minorities, such as Alawites, Druze, and Kurds, who continue to face challenges and not receive adequate protection from the Damascus government. The volatile situation in Syria, marred by factional violence and war-and-conflicts, serves as a part of general-news that the European Union closely monitors.
