Clashes between Druze and Syrian government forces in Swayda

On Thursday evening, fierce clashes broke out in the western governorate of Suez between the newly formed Druze National Detachment and the Syrian government's General Security Forces. Heavy weapons and drones were used in the fighting, which was a significant escalation of the conflict. The clashes lasted for several hours with the use of mortars and heavy machine guns, with both sides exchanging fire. Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri accused government forces of a massive attack on the city of al-Majdal.

Source Euronews

Without official comment from the General Security Service or the Syrian government, the situation remained tense. The state news agency reported that "illegal groups" were shelling populated areas such as Volga, Tal al-Akrou and Tal Hadid. These almost daily clashes, which have continued in recent months, have escalated into more serious conflicts, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region between regional security groups and the central government.

Given the ongoing conflict, the situation in Suez could lead to further destabilization in the region, as minority groups in Syria demand protection of their rights and livelihoods amid growing political tensions.