ISTANBUL

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) welcomed the announcement Wednesday of a ceasefire in the southern Syrian province of Suwayda, as it urged de-escalation and renewed efforts to restore stability.

The UAE’s Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of protecting civilians and supporting initiatives to ensure peace and security in Syria, particularly in the southern regions that have witnessed escalating unrest in recent weeks.

“The United Arab Emirates has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Suwayda Governorate in southern Syria, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation, the protection of civilians, and support for efforts aimed at restoring security and stability in the region,” it said.

The UAE also condemned recent Israeli airstrikes in southern Syria as a “dangerous escalation” and reaffirmed its “categorical rejection of violations that undermine Syria's sovereignty, security, and stability.”

Syria’s Interior Ministry confirmed a new ceasefire agreement in Suwayda on Wednesday, which includes full reintegration of the province under the central government authority, according to the SANA news agency.

The deal was announced amid Israeli strikes targeting Damascus, Suwayda and Daraa in southwestern Syria.

The Israeli army claims the operations are to protect the Druze minority.​​​​​​​

Clashes erupted between armed Druze militias and Bedouin groups in Suwayda after both sides reportedly seized vehicles from each other.

The Interior Ministry said more than 30 people have been killed and nearly 100 injured in the violence.​​​​​​​