Syria: Curfew imposed in Sweida until further notice

The commander of internal security in the southern Syrian province of Sweida, Ahmed al-Dalati, announced a curfew in the province, starting Tuesday morning, "until further notice."

This came in statements reported by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) following clashes between armed Druze and Bedouin groups in Sweida, which resulted in more than 90 deaths and dozens of injuries. This prompted the intervention of security forces and the army, who used force to enforce the law.

"We announce a curfew on the city's streets, starting at 8:00 a.m. until further notice, to ensure the safety of our people" in Sweida, Al-Dalati said.

He added that forces from the Ministries of Interior and Defense will begin entering the Sweida Center to protect civilians and restore security following the bloody events that took place in the city.

He continued, "We hold the religious authorities and the leaders of the armed factions responsible for their national and humanitarian efforts, and we call on them to fully cooperate with us to secure the city center and ensure the stability of the entire province."

In this context, SANA quoted the Defense Ministry's Media and Communications Department as saying that "army forces are continuing to pursue outlaw groups around Sweida."

The ministry urged residents of Sweida to stay indoors and "report any movements by outlaw groups that may resort to using civilian neighborhoods as a launching pad for their operations."