Syrian leader accuses Israel of turning country into ‘theatre of chaos’ as forces withdraw from Sweida
Syrian leader claims Israel is trying to destabilise country
- A ceasefire between Syrian government forces and Druze fighters in the southern province of Sweida appears to be holding, mediated by the US and Turkey.
- The conflict escalated following the abduction of a Druze merchant, leading to clashes between Druze militias, Bedouin tribes, and government troops.
- Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa accused Israel of attempting to destabilise Syria after Israeli airstrikes hit Damascus, including near the presidential palace and defence ministry.
- Israel justified its intervention by stating its responsibility to protect the Druze population and demanding the demilitarisation of the region south of Damascus.
- Reports indicate a high civilian death toll in Sweida, with one local journalist claiming over 500 bodies at the national hospital and human rights groups documenting at least 207 fatalities.