Clashes Between Druze and Bedouin Tribes in Southern Syria Escalate, 99 Killed

Kokcha News Agency – The ongoing conflict between the Druze community and Bedouin Arab tribes in Syria’s Suwayda province has resulted in 99 fatalities and numerous injuries. The violence began over the weekend following the kidnapping of a Druze merchant, leading to a cycle of retaliatory attacks that quickly spiraled into full-scale clashes.

The Syrian government has deployed military forces to the region, claiming to establish safe corridors for civilians and vowing to end the conflict “swiftly and decisively.” However, a Syrian Defense Ministry source reported that Druze forces attacked military units, killing 18 soldiers and taking 9 hostage.

Druze leader Hicri issued a statement accusing the Syrian regime of providing military support to Bedouin tribes and called for “urgent international protection.” He also stated that Druze leaders would not allow Syrian army and security forces to enter the region.

Meanwhile, Israel launched an airstrike on Syrian territory, targeting several tanks in Suwayda. Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz defended the attack, stating, “We will not allow harm to come to the Druze; Israel will not stand idly by.” Katz emphasized that the strikes were a “clear message and warning to the Syrian regime.”