The Syrian presidency announced a comprehensive and immediate nationwide ceasefire on Saturday, following a week of intense clashes between Bedouin Arab tribes and Druze armed groups in the southern province of Suwayda, and subsequent Israeli airstrikes on Syrian territory. In an official statement, the presidency called on all parties to "fully comply with this decision, immediately halt all combat operations, ensure the protection of civilians, and guarantee unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid." The government warned that any violation of the ceasefire would be treated as a "blatant breach of national sovereignty" and responded to under constitutional law. The statement urged all sides to give Syrian state institutions and forces the space to implement the ceasefire effectively, "ensuring stability and an end to the bloodshed." The move comes after violence erupted on July 13 between Bedouin fighters and Druze militias in Suwayda. The clashes triggered Israeli airstrikes, including on military infrastructure in Damascus. Israel claimed the attacks were carried out to "protect Druze communities." In a significant diplomatic development, U.S. Ambassador to Ankara Tom Barrack, who also serves as Washington's special envoy for Syria, announced late Friday on social media that Israel and Syria had agreed to a truce. "Israeli Prime Minister @Netanyahu and Syrian President @SyPresidency, supported by the U.S.A. @SecRubio, have agreed to a ceasefire embraced by Türkiye, Jordan, and neighboring countries," Barrack posted on X. He also called on Druze, Bedouins, Sunnis, and other minorities to "put down their weapons" and work together to build a new and united Syrian identity, urging national reconciliation and coexistence. The ceasefire also marks a major political shift in Syria. — Agencies
