In a significant development, the Syrian administration has declared a cease-fire aimed at addressing the escalating sectarian violence that has left hundreds dead and heightened tensions with Israel. The announcement came after a week of intense clashes in Sweida, a province that has become the epicenter of conflict.
Syria Announces Cease-Fire Amid Escalating Sectarian Violence
Syria Announces Cease-Fire Amid Escalating Sectarian Violence
The Syrian government's truce follows U.S. mediation as conflict with Israel deepens instability.
The government led by President Ahmed al-Shara revealed the cease-fire on Saturday, marking what he termed a "dangerous turning point" for the nation. In a televised statement, he acknowledged that the recent violence, exacerbated by Israeli intervention, poses a substantial threat to Syria’s stability. Al-Shara also mentioned plans to redeploy government forces in an effort to restore order.
The U.S. special envoy to Syria, Thomas J. Barrack Jr., highlighted the new truce as a “breakthrough” during his remarks. He urged various Syrian armed groups, including the minority Druse and Bedouin fighters central to the ongoing clashes, to disarm. Barrack emphasized the urgent necessity of achieving peace to halt the violence that has gripped the region.
Previously, on Wednesday, the Syrian government had announced an initial cease-fire, which seemed to provide a temporary respite but was followed by sporadic violence. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the U.S. had played a role in facilitating discussions aimed at securing an end to the turmoil.
While government forces began a withdrawal from the contested regions of Sweida, the situation remains precarious as clashes continue in scattered areas. The international community is closely watching developments, hoping for a sustained reduction in hostilities and the establishment of a lasting peace.
The U.S. special envoy to Syria, Thomas J. Barrack Jr., highlighted the new truce as a “breakthrough” during his remarks. He urged various Syrian armed groups, including the minority Druse and Bedouin fighters central to the ongoing clashes, to disarm. Barrack emphasized the urgent necessity of achieving peace to halt the violence that has gripped the region.
Previously, on Wednesday, the Syrian government had announced an initial cease-fire, which seemed to provide a temporary respite but was followed by sporadic violence. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the U.S. had played a role in facilitating discussions aimed at securing an end to the turmoil.
While government forces began a withdrawal from the contested regions of Sweida, the situation remains precarious as clashes continue in scattered areas. The international community is closely watching developments, hoping for a sustained reduction in hostilities and the establishment of a lasting peace.
