Sectarian Violence and Israeli Strikes Threaten Syria’s Fragile Post-Assad Peace

A surge in sectarian clashes, particularly in Syria’s southern Suwayda province, has exposed the deep instability facing the country after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

The violence, involving the Druze minority and Sunni Muslim tribes, has drawn in Israeli military intervention and raised fears of a wider conflict. Critics argue that the new Syrian leadership, including controversial figures like Ahmed Al-Sharaa (Al-Joulani), is failing to protect minorities and maintain order. International responses have been muted, with Israel taking a more active role amid concerns about foreign fighters and the transitional government’s weaknesses.

The unrest highlights the ongoing challenges to Syria’s unity and the risks of renewed civil war.