Syrian Army Pulls Back from Suwayda Amidst Uneasy Ceasefire
The Syrian army has reportedly commenced withdrawing its forces from the southern city of Suwayda, a predominantly Druze area, following a new ceasefire agreement reached with local Druze spiritual leaders on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. This critical development comes after days of intense clashes that claimed dozens of lives and garnered significant international attention, including rare military intervention from Israel.
The ceasefire accord, publicly outlined by Syria's Interior Ministry and read aloud by Sheikh Youssef Jarboua, a prominent Druze spiritual leader, outlines several key provisions aimed at de-escalation and a return to normalcy:
Immediate Halt to Hostilities: All military operations and attacks on security forces or checkpoints are to cease, with Syrian army units expected to return to their barracks.
Reintegration into the State: The agreement reaffirms Suwayda's full integration into the Syrian state, aiming to restore all government institutions and services under Syrian law.
Local Security Deployment: Internal Security Forces and police, including locally recruited individuals from Suwayda, will be deployed across the city to bolster public safety, with qualified local police officers taking on leadership roles.
Protection of Civilians: A strong commitment is emphasized to protect civilian lives and property, preventing violations, looting, or destruction of homes.
Weapon Regulation: Heavy weapons and unauthorized armed presence are to be regulated in coordination with the Interior and Defense Ministries, respecting Suwayda's unique social and historical context.
Investigation and Redress: A joint investigative committee will probe recent violations and crimes, aiming to compensate victims and restore rights.
Release of Detainees: All individuals detained during the recent unrest are to be released.
Highway Control: The government will regain control of the Damascus-Suwayda highway to ensure safe travel.
Restoration of Services: Immediate efforts will be made to restore essential services like water, electricity, fuel, and healthcare to the province.
The Syrian Defense Ministry stated that the withdrawal began "after the end of the sweep of the city for outlaw groups." However, the situation remains intricate and fragile. Not all Druze leaders have embraced the agreement. Notably, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, another influential Druze chief, has reportedly rejected the accord, asserting that there "cannot be an accord or negotiations with these armed groups that call themselves a government."
The recent surge in violence in Suwayda saw intensified fighting between armed Druze militias and Bedouin groups, prompting the Syrian military's intervention. This volatile situation also led to rare Israeli airstrikes targeting Damascus and other areas, with Israel citing its intention to protect the Druze minority in Syria. The United States had also called for a withdrawal by all sides to de-escalate the conflict.
The long-term success and stability of this ceasefire agreement hinges on the unwavering commitment of all involved parties and a genuine effort to address the deep-seated tensions and grievances plaguing the region.
