The Syrian presidency has officially confirmed the withdrawal of government troops from the southern Suwayda province following a ceasefire agreement between the government and Druze leaders. According to the presidential office, the decision was taken “within the framework of the Syrian state’s commitment to avoiding further escalation” and was supported by guarantees that non‑state armed groups would “refrain from retaliatory violence and harming civilians” (Anadolu Ajansı).
The move comes after days of intense sectarian clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin groups, which drew in Syrian government forces for the first time. The violent confrontations resulted in hundreds of casualties and triggered Israeli airstrikes targeting Syrian military positions near Suwayda (The Guardian).
Under the terms of the ceasefire—mediated by the United States, Turkey, and Arab states—Druze religious authorities and local leaders have assumed responsibility for the province’s security, intending to prevent further bloodshed and consolidate peace (AP News). Syria’s interim President Ahmed al‑Sharaa emphasized protecting the Druze community’s rights and restoring calm, while giving local factions authority in Suwayda’s defence (Reuters).
Despite the withdrawal, sporadic clashes resumed as Bedouin fighters continued to advance. In response, Syrian Interior Ministry spokespersons reported planning to redeploy security forces if needed to maintain stability (Al Jazeera). Israel has warned against Syrian troop redeployment near its borders and justified its airstrikes as necessary to protect the Druze minority .
