The Druze leadership in Syria accused the government of violating a ceasefire agreement after deadly clashes erupted between local Druze factions and Sunni Bedouins in Sweida province. The violence, which included kidnappings and attacks, resulted in many deaths and significant displacement. Government forces clashed with Druze groups after deploying to restore order. Druze leaders initially called for cooperation with security forces but faced opposition from influential leaders who criticized the government's actions and urged resistance against ongoing assaults on civilians.
The clashes began with tit-for-tat kidnappings between local Sunni Bedouins and Druze armed factions in Sweida, leading to dozens of deaths and thousands displaced.
The Druze spiritual leadership called for armed factions to surrender their weapons to government forces, emphasizing cooperation rather than resistance against their entry into the city.
Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri claimed the minority's previous statement was imposed by Damascus, accusing the government of breaking promises and continuing shelling of civilians.
Al-Hajri described the situation as a 'total war of annihilation' and urged the Druze community to confront the ongoing attacks with all available means.
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