At least 18 people were killed and 50 injured in escalating clashes between Syria's Druze community and Bedouin tribes in Sweida province, according to local media and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The violence marks one of the deadliest communal conflicts in the region this year.
Latest Developments
Fighting intensified Sunday across multiple areas, including Sweida's al-Muqawwas neighborhood and rural villages like al-Tayra and Lbeen. SOHR reports 14 Druze members and four Bedouin tribesmen among the dead, with children among the critically wounded. Security checkpoints near al-Sura al-Kabira village came under mortar fire as Bedouin fighters clashed with authorities.
Roots of Tension
The conflict stems from a recent incident where armed Bedouins allegedly assaulted and robbed a Druze youth at a checkpoint. Retaliatory detentions by Druze fighters further inflamed tensions, triggering widespread violence. Key transport routes like the Damascus-Sweida highway remain closed amid security concerns.
Regional Implications
Reinforcements from Daraa province have reportedly joined Bedouin-aligned groups, raising fears of prolonged conflict. Local mediators are attempting to negotiate prisoner releases while residents brace for potential escalation. No official government intervention has been announced as of publication.
