Sectarian Clashes Kill Nearly 100, Israel Strikes Syria Sweida

Violent clashes in southern Syria's Sweida province between Druze militias, Bedouin tribes, and government forces have resulted in nearly 100 deaths and hundreds injured over several days. The conflict began after a Bedouin attack on a Druze youth, escalating into cycles of abductions and retaliations involving both communities. Syrian government forces have advanced toward the region, reclaiming areas like the Druze village of Al-Mazraa, amid ongoing confrontations. Israel intervened by striking several tanks heading toward Sweida, framing the action as a protective measure for the Druze community amid the escalating violence. Druze spiritual leaders have called for calm and international protection, with some rejecting the presence of Syrian security forces in the province. The situation highlights the complex sectarian tensions and geopolitical interests impacting the Druze population, estimated at around 700,000 before the war.