Overview

• On July 16 the Syrian Interim Government announced a ceasefire between Druze and Bedouin factions after days of sectarian clashes in Suwayda
• The Israel Defense Forces report striking more than 160 targets since July 14 under the justification of protecting Druze communities
• The Syrian Foreign Ministry condemned the airstrikes as unlawful interference and asserted its right to defend national sovereignty
• Rights groups say the death toll from the Suwayda clashes has surpassed 200, including both combatants and civilians
• Interim Government security forces deployed on July 15 to suppress the unrest suffered casualties amid criticism over their management of communal tensions