ANKARA

A gathering of southern tribes in Syria announced on Saturday its full commitment to an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Suwayda after a directive from the presidency.

In an official statement, the tribal groups declared a “halt to all military operations” and pledged “strict adherence to the ceasefire terms.”

They called for “the release of all detainees from among the tribes, the safe and unconditional return of all displaced persons to their homes and villages, and the opening of dialogue channels to ensure that recent violence is not repeated and that the region moves toward lasting stability.”

Earlier on Saturday, the Syrian presidency announced a comprehensive and immediate ceasefire following days of unrest in the southern province of Suwayda.

On July 13, clashes broke out between Bedouin Arab tribes and armed Druze groups in Suwayda. Violence escalated and Israeli airstrikes followed, including on Syrian military positions and infrastructure in Damascus. Israel cited the “protection of Druze communities” as a pretext for its attacks.

Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa has announced a truce and called on the people to maintain unity. He said the Druze are a main part of the social fabric of the country and must not be judged by actions of a few.