Four killed in Sweida as sectarian clashes resurface

Four killed in Sweida as sectarian clashes resurface
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Renewed sectarian clashes erupted on Sunday in southern Syria’s Druze-majority Sweida province, resulting in at least four deaths, Arab News reported. The violence follows a fragile ceasefire established last month after deadly confrontations between Druze fighters and Sunni Bedouins in July, which claimed approximately 1,400 lives.

Clashes reignited around Tal Hadid, a strategically important high-altitude control point in western Sweida, reportedly killing three Syrian security personnel and one local fighter. The Syrian government accused Druze groups loyal to spiritual leader Hikmat Al-Hijri of violating the ceasefire by attacking government forces in Tal Hadid, causing casualties among security troops.

Fighting also broke out near the city of Thaala, with government-controlled areas reportedly bombarding the region with shells and heavy weapons. Explosions and gunfire were heard across Sweida city throughout the day.

The Syrian interior ministry condemned local factions for launching attacks on internal security forces and villages using rockets and mortars, resulting in further casualties. According to a security source, government forces regained control of Tal Hadid and other targeted areas following the clashes, reasserting their presence amid ongoing tensions in the province.