Fighting has erupted once again in Syria’s As Suwayda, just six hours after a fragile ceasefire was announced, plunging the region back into chaos. Earlier today, Syrian government forces began withdrawing heavy military vehicles from the southern city, but the hope for peace was short-lived. Clashes reignited between the Druze and Bedouin tribes, claiming at least 30 lives since Friday.

Reports from the ground indicate that military reinforcements have surged into the city, seizing control of critical areas, including the town center. However, the situation has deteriorated rapidly, fueled by inflammatory social media posts and graphic videos depicting the desecration of bodies of both Syrian soldiers and civilians. Tensions are palpable, with calls to arms echoing from Druze leaders, intensifying fears of an all-out conflict.

Adding to the turmoil, Israeli airstrikes have targeted not only the city center but also Syrian forces on the outskirts, further complicating an already volatile situation. The longstanding mistrust between the Druze community and the central government in Damascus has resurfaced, undermining any attempts at reconciliation. Previous ceasefire agreements seem to be unraveling as violence escalates.

The Syrian government has condemned the Israeli strikes and reiterated its commitment to maintaining order, vowing not to allow any faction to take justice into their own hands. Yet, as the streets of As Suwayda echo with the sounds of gunfire, the dream of a unified Syria appears increasingly distant. The world watches anxiously as the clock ticks down on a potential catastrophe in the heart of a nation already battered by years of conflict.