Syria, Druze Declare Ceasefire Amid Israeli Strikes, Military Withdrawal

Syrian government officials and Druze leaders have announced a new ceasefire in the southern province of Sweida amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Damascus. The ceasefire follows intense clashes between Druze armed groups and Sunni Bedouin tribes, which escalated into broader conflict requiring Syrian military intervention and Israeli strikes deep within Syrian territory. Despite the truce, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to continue attacks until Syrian regime forces withdraw, and Israeli forces have redeployed troops to the Golan Heights in anticipation of further conflict. The violence has resulted in over 300 deaths, including civilians and military personnel, with reports of sectarian violence reminiscent of the Syrian civil war. However, doubts remain about the ceasefire's durability, as a previous agreement collapsed quickly and prominent Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri has disavowed the new truce. The situation reflects ongoing instability in Syria's postwar political transition and highlights Israel's strategic interest in protecting its Druze allies.