Ceasefire Ends Sectarian Clashes in Southern Syria
Israel and Syria have agreed to a U.S.-mediated ceasefire following six days of intense sectarian violence in southern Syria's Sweida province. The deal, announced by U.S. Special Envoy Tom Barrack, aims to halt hostilities that claimed hundreds of lives and risked regional escalation.
Terms of the Agreement
The truce mandates the dissolution of local armed factions, surrender of heavy weapons, and integration of former fighters into Syrian state security structures. Syrian government forces will regain full access to Sweida, according to local media reports. Regional powers Türkiye and Jordan have endorsed the agreement.
Druze Leadership Welcomes Peace Efforts
The Druze community's spiritual leaders praised the ceasefire, urging a return to dialogue and unity. The development comes as UN aid convoys face challenges reaching conflict zones, heightening concerns about civilian welfare.
U.S. and Regional Diplomacy at Work
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio facilitated negotiations between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Barrack emphasized the need for "a new Syrian identity built on peace" in a social media statement.
