What's behind the clashes around the Syrian city of Sweida? | DW News

Key Concepts

• Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria
• Syrian government intervention in Sueda
• Clashes between Bedouin tribes and the Druze minority
• Druze community's relationship with Israel
• Sectarian violence and distrust of the Syrian government
• Allegations of Syrian government forces' violations and lack of accountability

Israeli Airstrikes and White House Pressure

The news report begins by stating that Israel has agreed to pause its airstrikes against Syrian government forces in southern Syria following pressure from the White House. These strikes were launched in the city of Sueda after clashes erupted between Bedouin tribes and the Druze religious minority. Israel stated its aim was to protect the Druze and maintain a demilitarized zone near its border.

Syrian Government Intervention and Continued Clashes

The Syrian government in Damascus deployed troops to Sueda to restore order. However, violent clashes continued despite the government's presence. This marked the first time the new government's forces fully entered Sueda, which had previously managed its own security through local Druze fighters due to widespread distrust of the Islamist-dominated government.

Sectarian Violence and Druze Leadership

The intervention occurred after days of intense sectarian violence that resulted in dozens of deaths. Reports of violence against the Druze community led their spiritual leadership to allow Syrian forces into the city, reportedly under pressure from Damascus. The defense ministry subsequently announced a ceasefire.

Israeli Response and Netanyahu's Statement

Following the ceasefire announcement, Israel launched airstrikes against Syrian government forces in Sueda. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel was acting to defend the Druze minority and prevent fighting near its border. He emphasized Israel's commitment to maintaining southwest Syria as a demilitarized zone and preventing the establishment of "a second Lebanon" on its border.

"We have a commitment to maintain southwest Syria as a demilitarized zone on the border of Israel. We'll not allow a return to a situation where a second Lebanon is being established for us there." - Benjamin Netanyahu

On-the-Ground Situation and Casualties

Despite the ceasefire, fighting continued, raising concerns about further sectarian violence. Casualties from the clashes and Israeli airstrikes were taken to a hospital outside the city. Eyewitness accounts described attacks on armored personnel carriers and numerous casualties, including young men.

DW Reporter's Analysis: Root Causes and Escalation

DW reporter Gazia Alhanes provided context, explaining that the conflict stemmed from built-up tensions between Sunni Bedouin tribes and the Druze community, as well as divisions within the Druze themselves. The Syrian government's intervention escalated the clashes.

Role of Syrian Forces and Alleged Violations

Alhanes noted that the Syrian forces' entry into Sueda was unusual, as the city had previously managed its own security. Reports of serious violations by Syrian forces triggered further clashes, prompting a Druze religious leader to call for armed action against them, which then led to Israeli strikes.

Impact on Civilians and Security Concerns

Local journalists reported bodies in the streets, ongoing clashes, arson attacks, and looting. Civilians were caught in the middle, and militia fighters were targeting Syrian security members.

Background on the Druze Community

The Druze are a minority in Syria, an offshoot of early Shia Islam with their own secretive belief system. There are approximately one million Druze worldwide, with the majority residing in Syria, Israel, and Lebanon. While sharing the same sect, there are political differences among Druze communities in different countries. Druze in Israel are generally loyal to the state, with many serving in the IDF.

Allegations of Collaboration with Israel

A polarizing aspect of the conflict is the belief that a Druze leader is in contact with Israeli Druze members, potentially explaining the timing of Israeli strikes following his statement. However, there is no concrete proof of this, as such contact would be considered treason.

Challenges for the Syrian Government

The new Syrian government faces significant challenges in establishing stability and security. A key criticism is its failure to hold security members accountable for violations, as highlighted by a Reuters investigation into coastal massacres in May. The investigation reportedly established a line of command leading directly to Syrian ministries, yet those responsible were not held accountable and continue to serve in the Syrian forces.

Lack of Accountability and Cycle of Violence

The lack of accountability fuels distrust among minorities towards Syrian forces, leading to retaliatory actions and perpetuating the cycle of violence. The situation remains complex and is still developing.

Conclusion

The situation in southern Syria is a complex interplay of sectarian tensions, government intervention, and external involvement. The pause in Israeli airstrikes offers a temporary reprieve, but the underlying issues of sectarian distrust, government accountability, and regional power dynamics remain unresolved, threatening further escalation and instability. The lack of accountability for past violations by Syrian forces is a major impediment to building trust and achieving lasting peace.