Lebanese premier reaffirms support for Syria’s unity under central government

BEIRUT/ISTANBUL

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam on Thursday reaffirmed the importance of preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and ensuring that all its citizens operate under the authority of the central state.

In a phone call with prominent Druze leader Walid Jumblatt, Salam urged all parties in Lebanon to exercise restraint and wisdom to avoid actions that could spark internal tensions or destabilize the country, his office said in a statement.

He also praised Jumblatt and other local figures for their efforts to maintain calm and preserve national cohesion.

On Wednesday, Jumblatt issued a statement accusing Israel of “manipulating certain weak-minded individuals” to create an impression about protecting the Druze community in Syria.

“Some have taken advantage of recent violations and attacks for their own purposes,” he said, without naming specific individuals.

On Monday, Syrian army forces entered Suwayda to restore order following deadly clashes between armed Druze and Bedouin groups in the southern province, which left at least 30 people dead.

Israel has frequently used the pretext of “protecting the Druze” in Syria to justify its repeated attacks on Syrian territory.

However, most Druze leaders in Syria have issued joint statements rejecting foreign interference, reaffirming their commitment to a unified Syria and opposing any moves toward division or secession.

On Wednesday, Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed a new ceasefire agreement in Suwayda that provides for the province’s full reintegration under central government control.

The deal was announced amid Israeli airstrikes targeting the capital, Damascus, as well as Suwayda and Daraa, under the claim of protecting the Druze community.