US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that Washington and involved parties have agreed on “specific steps” to bring tensions between Israel and Syria to an end by the night. This declaration comes as Israel launched fresh military strikes on Syria and increased troop presence along the border to protect the Druze minority community.
Calls for Action in High-Stakes Situation
“We have engaged all the parties involved in the clashes in Syria. We have agreed on specific steps that will bring this troubling and horrifying situation to an end tonight. This will require all parties to deliver on the commitments they have made, and this is what we fully expect them to do,” Rubio stated in a post on X.
Earlier, while speaking in the Oval Office alongside Donald Trump, Rubio described the long-standing rivalries between Israel and Syria as “historic.” He acknowledged the unfortunate misunderstandings that have led to escalating violence, adding, “We’re on our way towards real de-escalation. In the next few hours, we hope to see some real progress to end what you’ve been seeing.”
Continued Violence Amid Ceasefire Declaration
Despite the diplomatic efforts, Israeli strikes continued even after reports of a renewed ceasefire agreement by Syrian government officials and Druze leaders. The Syrian army began withdrawing from Sweida, the city predominantly inhabited by the Druze community. However, doubts linger over the ceasefire’s durability, especially after a previous agreement quickly fell apart, with key Druze leader Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri renouncing the new accord.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reaffirmed the military’s resolve, stating, “We will continue to operate vigorously in Sweida to destroy the forces that attacked the Druze until they withdraw completely.”
Commitment to Protect the Druze
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized his country’s commitment to safeguarding Syria’s Druze population due to the deep bonds and historical ties shared with Druze citizens in Israel. “We are committed to preventing harm to Syria’s Druze,” he stated.
As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful, hoping for a resolution that ensures peace and stability in the region.
