In a shocking escalation of violence, at least 99 people have been killed in southern Syria as sectarian clashes erupt between Sunni Bedouin tribal groups and Druze militias, now entering their second day. The Syrian government, struggling to maintain order, has launched an offensive, capturing a Druze village as they push toward the city of Sueda. This alarming situation follows the fall of President Bashar al-Assad last year, which has led to increased tensions and violence across the region.

Experts warn that the ongoing conflict reflects a deeper crisis within Syria, where the proliferation of militias and rampant arms possession—one in every household reportedly armed—fuel an environment ripe for violence. Zadun al-Zubi, a governance and peace-building expert, emphasizes that the current clashes are not isolated incidents but rather symptomatic of a long-standing cycle of sectarian violence exacerbated by the state’s inability to exert control over the southern region.

As the Syrian government grapples with this urgent crisis, it faces a critical test of its authority. The new administration must act decisively to quell the violence and restore peace, or risk total collapse. Al-Zubi warns that without integrating Druze leaders into the government and creating a more inclusive state apparatus, the consequences could extend far beyond Syria’s borders, potentially destabilizing the entire region.

In a desperate bid to protect the Druze minority, Israel has reportedly struck Syrian tanks advancing towards Sueda. The situation remains fluid and perilous, with the potential for further escalation looming. The international community watches closely as the fate of Syria hangs in the balance. Immediate action is essential to prevent a descent into chaos that could have catastrophic implications for millions.