Daijiworld Media Network - Damascus

Damascus, Jul 21: Syrian authorities have accused Druze militias of obstructing vital humanitarian aid from reaching the southern province of Sweida, deepening the crisis in a region already grappling with deadly sectarian violence and political instability.

In an official statement, Syria’s foreign affairs ministry claimed that a humanitarian convoy carrying essential medical supplies was denied entry into Sweida for the second time in just four days. The statement alleged that Druze armed factions were placing conditions on the aid’s passage, limiting the convoy’s ability to reach those in need.

Only a partial delivery of the supplies, escorted by the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, managed to enter the province, according to the report by Xinhua news agency.

Blaming external influences, the ministry stated:

“The deteriorating security situation is a direct result of ongoing Israeli intervention and the withdrawal of Syrian security forces. This has led to a loss of control, impeding efforts to provide essential services and meet basic needs.”

Syria’s emergency response chief, Raed al-Saleh, echoed the concern during a televised interview on Sunday, revealing that aid trucks have been stalled for several days due to "a complex security situation and the kidnapping of humanitarian workers."

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that recent violent clashes between Druze militias and Bedouin tribal fighters have resulted in over 1,000 fatalities, underscoring the severity of the escalating conflict.

In response to the spiraling violence, the Syrian government declared an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire on Saturday. The truce aims to halt the sectarian bloodshed in Sweida and nearby regions, which escalated dramatically following Israeli airstrikes last week targeting militia positions.

The government described the ceasefire as both a "national and humanitarian obligation" and urged all factions to end hostilities and guarantee unhindered access for humanitarian assistance.

Authorities emphasized that safeguarding civilian lives and restoring unity were paramount amid what they called “critical circumstances.”

With the truce now in effect, all eyes are on Sweida to see whether rival groups will honor the ceasefire and allow aid to flow freely to communities on the brink.