BEIRUT: Israel and Syria have reached a ceasefire agreement, according to the U.S. envoy to Turkey, following days of intense fighting in a predominantly Druze region that left over 300 people dead.
The clashes escalated on Wednesday when Israel launched airstrikes in Damascus and targeted Syrian government forces in the south, demanding their withdrawal from Druze-populated areas.
Israel stated that the military action was aimed at protecting the Druze community, a small but influential minority with populations in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel.
The fighting had triggered international concern, with humanitarian organizations warning of civilian casualties and displacement in the affected regions. Several aid agencies had called for immediate access to deliver medical and relief supplies.
The United Nations and regional powers including Turkey and Jordan had pushed for de-escalation, urging both sides to respect international law and avoid further loss of life.
While the ceasefire has brought a temporary halt to hostilities, tensions remain high, and observers warn that the underlying political and sectarian issues have yet to be resolved.
