Israeli Air Force drones struck positions of Arab tribal militia formations in Syria's southern Suwayda province, according to Al Mayadeen TV. The channel reported that Israeli UAVs conducted at least four raids on their positions west of the provincial capital. No information was provided about casualties among the Bedouin fighters.
Earlier, drones had attacked militia convoys moving south along the Palmyra-Homs highway.
Syria TV reported that on July 17, fierce clashes erupted near Suwayda city between Druze self-defense forces and Arab tribal units backed by Damascus authorities. Meanwhile, SANA news agency stated that Druze fighters have been pursuing families of Bedouin militia members in Suwayda after government troops withdrew from the area. According to their reports, civilian killings — including women and children — have occurred in the eastern part of the city.
The Al Watan newspaper claims these reprisals in Suwayda are allegedly led by followers of radical Druze sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, who advocates disobedience to authorities and closer ties with Israel.
On July 16, Syria's Defense Ministry announced the complete withdrawal of military forces from Suwayda under a ceasefire agreement — the fourth such deal this year. A ministry statement clarified that “troops are leaving Suwayda after completing operations to clear the city of illegal armed groups, with police forces assuming control.”
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Based on TASS materials