Overview

• Interim president Ahmed al Sharaa’s forces entered Suwayda to impose state control and now occupy the city under a locally brokered ceasefire.
• Druze spiritual leaders urged fighters to disarm to prevent further bloodshed but key community figures remain skeptical of Damascus’ intentions.
• Over 100 people have been killed in two days of sectarian clashes that erupted after a Druze merchant was kidnapped by Bedouin gunmen.
• Israel’s air force bombed Syrian security units around Suwayda on July 15 and has since struck government sites in Damascus, citing protection of the Druze community and border security.
• According to Axios, the United States formally asked Israel to halt its raids on southern Syrian military positions amid rising international concern.