By Esther Ososanya | Pinnacle Global Exclusive
Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has vowed to protect the country’s Druze minority amid a fragile U.S.-brokered ceasefire, following days of deadly fighting between government forces and Druze fighters in the southern city of Sweida.
The truce comes after Israel launched airstrikes targeting Syrian forces accused of killing Druze civilians while also calling for government withdrawal from the area.
Sweida Massacre: Dozens Dead, Families Wiped Out
Local sources reported scenes of horror.
Ryan Marouf, a journalist with Suwayda24, said he counted more than 60 bodies in Sweida, including a family of 12 killed in one home.
“People are still looking for bodies,” Marouf said in a voice recording.
The Syrian Network for Human Rights reported at least 193 deaths in just four days—including women, children, medics, and some victims of field executions. Israeli strikes and factional clashes contributed to the toll.
Sharaa Blames Israel, Promises Accountability
In a national address Thursday, Sharaa accused Israel of attempting to fracture Syrian unity and manipulate the Druze minority for geopolitical gain.
“Israel has long targeted our stability. We will not let them turn our Druze citizens into pawns of foreign powers,” Sharaa said.
He promised to hold violators on all sides accountable for atrocities against Druze civilians.
Sharaa, a former jihadist commander who broke with al-Qaeda in 2016, now leads Syria’s fragile post-Assad government. His remarks come amid attempts to consolidate power and earn credibility from wary minority groups.
Sectarian Violence Sparks Cultural Outrage
In a disturbing cultural affront, retreating government fighters reportedly shaved off the moustaches of Druze men—a sacred symbol of their faith and identity.
Homes were also looted and torched before troops pulled out of Sweida overnight, according to a Reuters eyewitness.
International Mediation Calms the Frontlines
The ceasefire followed urgent intervention by the United States, Turkey, and several Arab states. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed Wednesday that all parties had agreed to end the violence.
Sharaa credited the mediators for “saving the region from an uncertain fate”.
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Israel Stands Firm on Southern Front
Israel’s military leadership defended its strikes, saying it would not tolerate a militant presence near its borders.
“We will not allow southern Syria to become a terror stronghold,” said Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir.
The strikes damaged Syria’s defence ministry and hit areas near the presidential palace in Damascus.
Border Breach: Israeli Druze Cross to Aid Kin
In a rare move, dozens of Israeli Druze citizens breached the border fence to assist fellow Druze in Syria. The Israeli military said it was working to safely return those who crossed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged restraint, asking citizens not to cross into active conflict zones.
UN Security Council to Convene
The United Nations Security Council will meet Thursday to address the crisis. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon called on the council to condemn the “barbaric crimes” against Syrian civilians.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.