Israel and Syria Reach Ceasefire in US-Backed Agreement

Israel and Syria Reach Ceasefire in US-Backed Agreement

Israel and Syria have reached a US-supported ceasefire following a sharp escalation in violence in southern Syria. The agreement, backed by Türkiye and Jordan, aims to halt clashes and prevent further humanitarian crisis in the region.

The ceasefire, announced early Saturday by US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack, comes after days of deadly fighting in Syria’s Suwayda province and Israeli airstrikes on Syrian military targets. The violence, which has claimed over 300 lives and displaced thousands, stemmed from escalating clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups and Israeli intervention to protect the Druze minority.

The agreement was reached with the involvement of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Under the deal, Israel will pause its military operations, and Syrian security forces will be permitted limited access to restore order in Suwayda.

Regional powers Türkiye and Jordan have welcomed the ceasefire, calling it a critical step toward calming tensions. The US urged all involved factions Druze, Bedouin, and others to lay down arms and work toward a unified Syrian identity.

Despite the deal, local Druze leaders remain cautious, demanding guarantees for continued autonomy and protection. Humanitarian conditions in the region continue to deteriorate, with widespread shortages of food, electricity, and water.

Diplomats warn the truce’s success will depend on continued dialogue and trust-building among communities.