Damascus: The Syrian government on Saturday announced an immediate and nationwide ceasefire, marking a major turning point in the deadly sectarian violence in southern Syria that recently drew Israeli intervention through massive airstrikes.
In a formal statement, Syrian authorities said the ceasefire was being implemented to safeguard national unity and protect civilians amid “critical circumstances.” Describing the move as both a national duty and a humanitarian necessity, the statement called on all factions to halt hostilities and ensure the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.
The government also reaffirmed its intent to re-establish full control over the southern province of Sweida, facilitate the return of displaced residents, and restore law and order. It warned that any breach of the ceasefire would be considered a violation of national sovereignty and would carry legal consequences.
The announcement came just hours after US Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, revealed the truce via social media platform X. He stated that the ceasefire was the result of an agreement between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syria’s interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, brokered by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The deal has gained the support of key regional actors, including Turkey, Jordan, and Syria’s other neighbouring states.
The ceasefire follows six days of intense sectarian clashes in Sweida province, which claimed hundreds of lives and raised alarm over a potential broader regional conflict. As part of the agreement, Syrian security and military forces will be permitted to re-enter all areas of Sweida, according to reports aired by local television channels.
The terms of the deal also include the disbanding of all local militias, the surrender of heavy weaponry, and the reintegration of former combatants into the country’s national security apparatus.
Welcoming the ceasefire, the spiritual leadership of Syria’s Druze community issued a statement voicing support for the agreement and calling for an end to hostilities. The statement urged all sides to return to “wisdom and reason” to bring lasting peace to the region.
With IANS inputs