Syrian leader claims Israel is trying to destabilise country

WorldPolitics
18 Jul 2025 • 1:26 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A ceasefire between Syrian government forces and Druze fighters in the southern province of Sweida appears to be holding, mediated by the US and Turkey.
  • The conflict escalated following the abduction of a Druze merchant, leading to clashes between Druze militias, Bedouin tribes, and government troops.
  • Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa accused Israel of attempting to destabilise Syria after Israeli airstrikes hit Damascus, including near the presidential palace and defence ministry.
  • Israel justified its intervention by stating its responsibility to protect the Druze population and demanding the demilitarisation of the region south of Damascus.
  • Reports indicate a high civilian death toll in Sweida, with one local journalist claiming over 500 bodies at the national hospital and human rights groups documenting at least 207 fatalities.

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