Türkiye, Syria Accuse Israel of Instigating Violence in Sweida

(MENAFN) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shibani accused Israel on Wednesday of playing a key role in escalating the violence in the southern Syrian province of Sweida, home to a large Druze population.

"One of the main actors behind this dark picture has turned out to be Israel," Fidan stated during a joint press briefing with al-Shibani. He further claimed that Israel's "expansionist policies" are pushing into Syria, destabilizing the region.

Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to Syria’s sovereignty, calling for a Syria where all cultures and beliefs can coexist. Syria "should be one where all peoples, beliefs, and cultures are preserved, and can live together," he said, reaffirming Türkiye’s support for the Syrian government's stance on unity among the country's diverse communities.

In a pointed accusation, al-Shibani mirrored Fidan’s claims, asserting that Israel had orchestrated the unrest in Sweida. "Israel's repeated threats are targeting Syria's sovereignty and endangering the safety of our citizens," he declared.

Al-Shibani also condemned efforts to divide Syria, stressing the Druze community’s integral role in Syrian society. "Damascus remains committed to regional stability," he added.

This accusation follows the declaration of a ceasefire on July 19, brokered by Syrian interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa, which was aimed at ending weeks of sectarian violence and Israeli airstrikes. As per the ceasefire agreement, Syrian government forces were to withdraw from key areas while local factions and Druze leaders assumed responsibility for internal security.

Despite the ceasefire, sporadic clashes have continued, undermining the fragile truce. Recently, several humanitarian aid convoys from UN agencies and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent entered Sweida, but ongoing violence has hindered further aid deliveries, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

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