Israel and Syria agree to US-brokered ceasefire
Photo: Israel and Syria agree to ceasefire (Getty Images)
Israel and Syria have agreed to a ceasefire with support from the United States, informs Israel's Channel 12.
The Trump administration served as a mediator in the negotiations between the two sides. According to Tom Barrack, US Ambassador to Türkiye, Washington expressed concern that the ongoing crisis could further destabilize the region and undermine American diplomatic efforts in Syria.
"Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, supported by the US, have agreed to a ceasefire," Barrack said.
He added that Türkiye, Jordan, and other neighboring countries back the ceasefire deal.
"We call upon Druze, Bedouins, and Sunnis to put down their weapons and together with other minorities build a new and united Syrian identity in peace and prosperity with its neighbors," Barak stated.
Israel-Syria conflict
Following the ouster of Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, Syria's new interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa pledged to ensure inclusion for national and religious minorities. However, Islamist groups launched attacks on Alawites and Druze.
The Druze have refused to disarm or join the Armed Forces. Clashes erupted in July near the city of Sweida. On July 16, the government deployed troops.
In response, the Israel Defense Forces struck Damascus, destroying the General Staff and Defense Ministry buildings and damaging the presidential palace.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the strike aimed to protect the Druze from pressure by the Syrian government.
On July 18, Israel launched another airstrike on the city of Sweida.
For more on why fighting has reignited in the Middle East, and whether peace is possible, read RBC-Ukraine's article.
