Israel’s military struck Syrian army tanks in southern Syria’s Sweida province on Monday, July 14, as government forces and Bedouin tribes clashed with Druze militias, escalating tensions in a region grappling with instability post-Assad. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported 99 deaths, including two children, two women, and 14 security personnel, while Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed over 30 deaths and nearly 100 injuries.

The conflict began with tit-for-tat kidnappings, sparked by Bedouin tribes attacking a Druze vegetable seller at a checkpoint, leading to retaliatory violence. Government forces, deployed to restore order, clashed with Druze militias, with some reportedly aiding Bedouin groups. Interior Ministry spokesperson Noureddine al-Baba insisted the clashes were “not sectarian,” framing them as state action against “bandits and criminals.”

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the strikes a “clear warning” to Syria’s new regime under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, emphasizing protection for the Druze, a minority sect viewed as loyal in Israel. However, many Syrian Druze, including those in Sweida, reject Israeli intervention, while others, led by Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri, accused the government of supporting “takfiri gangs” and sought international protection.

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The Druze, a 10th-century offshoot of Shiite Islam, primarily reside in Sweida and Damascus suburbs like Jaramana. Their militias, formed during Syria’s 14-year civil war, have faced attacks from groups like the Islamic State. Israel’s actions follow its seizure of a UN-patrolled buffer zone near the Golan Heights and prior strikes, including a May attack near Damascus’ presidential palace.

Syria’s Foreign Ministry urged nations to respect its sovereignty and avoid supporting “separatist” movements, calling for an end to violence and illegal weapons. UN envoy Najat Rochdi stressed the need for dialogue and civilian protection to prevent further escalation.

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