Following a week of sectarian violence between Druze fighters and Bedouin tribal militia in Suweida, Syria, a fragile ceasefire is currently holding as of October 2024. The conflict, which has resulted in over 1,000 deaths, has left the area extremely tense. The BBC reported observing deserted villages, burnt-out shops, and shell casings along the highway leading to Suweida, indicating the intensity of recent fighting. Hundreds of armed Bedouin, defiant and prepared to resume fighting if the ceasefire fails, were observed by BBC reporters. The Bedouin are demanding the release of injured members they consider hostages. Druze factions accuse Syrian government forces of siding with the Bedouin and committing abuses. The Syrian Red Crescent is working to evacuate the wounded, facing challenges including sniper fire and shortages of medical supplies.

The Syrian government deployed troops to enforce the ceasefire four days prior to the BBC report. A Syrian army commander warned of Druze snipers posing a significant danger to those approaching Suweida. The conflict represents the most serious sectarian violence since the Syrian uprising that brought Islamist rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa to power late last year, following decades under the Assad regime. Despite calls for unity and hope from Raed al-Saleh, the minister of disaster management and emergency response, the situation on the ground remains precarious.

Impact Statement: The ongoing instability in Suweida highlights the fragility of peace in Syria and the potential for further sectarian violence. The humanitarian crisis, marked by casualties and medical shortages, requires urgent international attention.