Bodies and looted homes: Syria’s Druze reeling after Sweida bloodshed

Israel's military conducted airstrikes in Damascus and southern Syria for a third consecutive day, targeting the Syrian defense ministry amidst escalating sectarian violence in Suweida, where over 350 have died since clashes began. The Syrian military reportedly began withdrawing forces, and the U.S. has announced steps for a ceasefire, while Netanyahu emphasized support for the Druze community amidst heightened tensions. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Israel is attacking parts of Syria to help...

Two senior Christian leaders from the Holy Land visited Gaza following Israeli airstrikes that killed three people at the Holy Family Church, prompting international condemnation and expressions of solidarity for the local Christian community. The delegation, supported by aid agencies, delivered 500 tonnes of aid and emphasized the need for Israel to ensure safety and halt military actions after the strike, which was deemed a "mistake" by Israeli officials. Explain It To Me Like I'm...

Under Israeli bombardment and diplomatic pressure, interim Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the withdrawal of troops from the Druze-majority city of Sweida, revealing his weakened position. Despite attempts to unify control and present a strong front, Sharaa's leadership is questioned as he navigates internal and external challenges, including pressures from Israel and the Kurds. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Syria's interim leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, had to pull his soldiers back from a city...

Syrian security forces are set to redeploy to Sweida city amid ongoing tensions between Druze and Bedouin tribes, following a fragile ceasefire that briefly halted violent clashes. Israel has intervened to prevent Syrian troop deployments in the region, conducting airstrikes while the U.S. has worked to maintain the truce, complicating the already strained dynamics in southern Syria. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Syrian soldiers are getting ready to go back to a city...

The Syrian presidency accused Druze fighters in Sweida of violating a ceasefire agreement after government forces withdrew to prevent escalation amid US-Arab mediation efforts. The statement condemned what it termed "outlawed forces" for violent acts threatening civil peace and warned against Israeli interference, while urging all parties to de-escalate and hold violators accountable. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: The Syrian government said that some Druze fighters in Sweida are breaking the peace rules...

Slovenia has declared far-right Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich persona non grata, citing their "genocidal statements" and incitement of violence against Palestinians, making it the first EU country to take such action. This decision follows a lack of consensus among EU foreign ministers on a unified response to Israel's human rights violations amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Explain It To Me Like I'm 5: Slovenia has said that two Israeli ministers are not...