Israel and Syria reach ceasefire - Hostage exchange comes next

"Escalating hostilities can only be contained with an agreement to pause violence, protect the innocent, allow humanitarian access, and step back from danger," said Barrack, who also serves as the Special Envoy on Syria.

The US Ambassador to Türkiye also added that the ceasefire is now in effect, officially bringing an end to Israel's recent strikes on Syrian military targets amid the "deadly violence" in the province of As-Suwayda, which is predominantly populated by Druze.

"As of 5:00 p.m. Damascus time, all parties have navigated to a pause and cessation of hostilities," wrote the US Ambassador to Türkiye on the social platform X.

According to Barrack, the next step in the de-escalation process will be "a complete exchange of hostages and detainees."

The media outlet notes that the US Ambassador to Türkiye was likely referring to the release of Syrian Druze captured by government forces and tribal militias, and vice versa.

Israel-Syria conflict

After the ousting of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, Ahmed al-Sharaa became the countryєs interim head of state. He declared his intent to ensure equal rights for all national and religious minorities.

However, Islamist groups began launching attacks on members of the Alawite and Druze communities.

The Druze refused to disarm or join the new government forces. In July, clashes broke out in the area of As-Suwayda, and by the 16th, the authorities deployed troops to the region.

In response, Israel carried out airstrikes on Damascus, destroying the buildings of the Ministry of Defense and General Staff, and damaging the Presidential Palace.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation was aimed at protecting the Druze from pressure by the Syrian authorities.

Later, on July 18, Israel launched another airstrike on the city of As-Suwayda.

For more details on why fighting continues in the Middle East, read our material on the topic.