On Friday, the Syrian presidency issued a ceasefire agreement in response to deadly sectarian clashes in Suwayda and Daraa’s southern region that have claimed at least 32 lives this week alone, raising fears of wider conflict or renewed instability in areas previously considered peaceful.
In an official statement broadcast by state media, the presidency announced: “Working closely with national reconciliation committees and local dignitaries in order to preserve civil peace and national unity, the Syrian government has reached an agreement between all involved parties to sign a ceasefire agreement.” Additionally, they encouraged all armed groups to honor this truce agreement while calling for immediate restoration of public services and civilian movement.
Clashes between Druze militia groups and government-aligned fighters were reported to have been caused by long-standing grievances over local governance, economic conditions, sectarian tensions exacerbated by external influences and illicit trafficking routes, and external influence/illicit trafficking routes. Suwayda Province has traditionally maintained autonomy and neutrality during Syria’s civil war; however rising discontent has made it more volatile.
Local activists reported that fighting began following an altercation at a checkpoint run by pro-government forces that quickly turned violent. Videos shared via social media showed gunfire, burning vehicles and roadblocks across multiple towns; as soon as this began to spread further violence ensued between factions loyal to Damascus and local armed groups that claim they represent community interests.
Residents reported scenes of chaos, with families trapped inside their homes and shortages of food and medical supplies becoming severe. “We heard gunfire for hours. People were afraid to leave their houses,” stated a resident from Shahba, located just north of Suwayda city. “All we want is peace” said another local.
United Nations Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen welcomed the ceasefire but stressed the need for lasting solutions. “We urge all parties to exercise maximum restraint and engage in genuine dialogue that addresses the root causes of these clashes,” he stated.
Analysts caution that while the ceasefire may temporarily ease tensions, power struggles among tribal, sectarian, and political groups in southern Syria — coupled with worsening economic conditions — pose a serious risk to national reconciliation efforts.
The Syrian presidency announced that they will work closely with local and international partners to facilitate humanitarian aid delivery, so displaced civilians can return safely home.
Assuming the ceasefire will hold, many in southern Syria hope this latest round of violence marks an inflection point towards peace rather than further unrest.
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