Israel Threatens Escalation in Syria as Ceasefire with Druze Fails

DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) — Clashes intensified in the southern city of Sweida on Wednesday following the collapse of a ceasefire between Syrian government forces and armed Druze groups, prompting Israel to threaten an escalation of its involvement in the conflict. The Syrian Defense Ministry accused local militias of violating the ceasefire agreement, resulting in renewed military operations by the Syrian army aimed at restoring order in the Druze-majority province.

"Military forces continue to respond to the source of fire inside the city of Sweida while adhering to rules of engagement to protect residents and ensure the safe return of those who left the city back to their homes," the ministry stated.

This latest round of violence follows a tumultuous period in Syria, marked by the ousting of long-time leader Bashar Assad in December after a protracted civil war. The new leadership, primarily composed of Sunni Muslims, has struggled to consolidate control, particularly in regions populated by religious minorities, leading to heightened tensions and fears of sectarian violence.

Reports indicate that tensions escalated due to tit-for-tat kidnappings between Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druze factions, with government forces intervening and subsequently clashing with the Druze. Allegations of extrajudicial killings and looting by security forces have emerged, with the Syrian Interior Ministry reporting at least 30 fatalities on Monday. The U.K.-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported over 250 deaths, including civilians and soldiers, as of Wednesday.

In response to the violence, Israel has conducted airstrikes targeting Syrian government convoys, citing a commitment to protect the Druze community. The Druze, a religious sect with roots in Ismailism, number over one million globally, with significant populations in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, issued a stern warning, stating that the Israeli military would continue its operations until Syrian forces withdraw from the area.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's obligation to safeguard the Druze and maintain a demilitarized zone along its border with Syria, emphasizing that Israel would not tolerate the presence of Islamist militants near its borders. Since Assad's fall, Israel has adopted a more aggressive stance toward Syria, conducting hundreds of airstrikes and seizing territory in the U.N.-patrolled buffer zone along the Golan Heights.

The situation remains precarious as the Druze community in Syria grapples with conflicting sentiments regarding the new government, with some advocating for integration while others push for greater autonomy. The international community watches closely as the potential for wider conflict looms over the region, exacerbated by ongoing sectarian tensions and military operations. As the situation develops, the implications for both local populations and regional stability remain uncertain.