Syrian Leader Pledges Protection for Druze Community
Amid deadly sectarian violence in southern Syria, including over 350 deaths in Sweida, interim President Ahmed al‑Sharaa made a firm pledge on July 17, 2025: the Druze community is now under the full protection of the Syrian state. He blamed "outlaw groups" for the violence and condemned Israeli airstrikes on Damascus that followed. What He Promised President al‑Sharaa said the Druze are “a fundamental part of the fabric of this nation,” and assured them their rights and freedoms are top state priorities. He vowed to hold accountable those responsible for mistreating Druze civilians, describing them as "transgressors against our Druze people." Israeli Intervention Explained Israel launched targeted airstrikes in Damascus and southern Syria, claiming intervention was necessary to protect the Druze. The strikes included hits near the presidential palace and military headquarters, and reportedly killed Syrian troops and civilians. A Fragile Ceasefire […]