Clashes erupt between Druze militias and security forces in Syria's As-Suwayda province

Clashes have erupted between state security forces and Druze armed groups in the southern Syrian province of As-Suwayda. According to the state news agency SANA, the fighting, which began on Monday and continued throughout the night, subsided early Tuesday morning.

It was announced that at least 10 security personnel were injured in the clashes. According to local sources, a 14-year-old child in the region was also injured by shrapnel. No fatalities were reported in the fighting, which reportedly involved the use of heavy weapons.

The incidents were said to have intensified in the west of As-Suwayda following President Ahmed al-Shara's visit to Daraa. Local media alleged that Israel conducted separate operations around Daraa and Quneitra at the same time.

MUTUAL ACCUSATIONS FROM BOTH SIDES

Statements in state media claimed that security forces had "repelled attacks by illegal groups" in western As-Suwayda over the past 24 hours. It was reported that security personnel were subjected to mortar and machine-gun fire in the Tal Hadid and Walgha regions.

The National Guard, one of the main Druze armed factions in Syria, argued that state forces opened fire on residential areas in As-Suwayda and that a child was injured as a result. Both sides held each other responsible for the start of the conflict.

As-Suwayda, which is predominantly Druze, is considered one of the regions where the Damascus administration has not been able to establish full control. The province has long remained a source of tension due to pressure from government forces and restrictions on its connections with surrounding areas.

In recent weeks, educational exams have also been a subject of controversy in the region. SANA reported that the clashes coincided with protests held against the obstruction of students taking exams in As-Suwayda.

News Source: 12punto