Syria's interior authorities confirmed late Saturday that Bedouin tribal fighters have fully withdrawn from the southern city of Sweida following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement. The development comes after days of intense clashes that left hundreds dead and raised fears of a humanitarian collapse in the strategic region.
Ceasefire Implementation and Clashes
Interior authorities spokesperson Noureddin al-Baba stated that security forces deployed across Sweida's northern and western sectors facilitated the evacuation of tribal fighters, ending urban combat that began in mid-July. However, the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported renewed mortar attacks by withdrawing tribal forces, causing material damage and potential civilian injuries.
Three-Phase Agreement Faces Challenges
The ceasefire, mediated by the U.S., Türkiye, Jordan, and regional partners, aimed to halt violence that claimed over 940 lives since July 13. Despite initial compliance, Druze armed groups launched a counteroffensive hours after the truce took effect, temporarily reclaiming parts of the city before tribal forces retreated.
Humanitarian Crisis Looms
The SOHR warned of deteriorating conditions in Sweida, citing destroyed infrastructure, depleted medical supplies, and the collapse of the main hospital. Syria's Druze spiritual leadership accused tribal militias of ceasefire violations and 'crimes against humanity,' urging international guarantors to enforce the agreement and protect civilians.
As Sweida's 300,000 residents face shortages of water and electricity, regional analysts caution that lasting peace depends on addressing long-standing tribal disputes and stabilizing basic services.
