Are Clashes Near Damascus Escalating as Death Toll Reaches 18?
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Synopsis
Clashes in the southern suburbs of Damascus have intensified, leading to a rising death toll amid growing sectarian unrest. This report examines the escalating violence, its origins, and the community's response in a bid to restore peace.
Key Takeaways
- Clashes in Damascus suburbs are escalating.
- Death toll has reached 18, including civilians and pro-government forces.
- Unrest was triggered by an offensive audio recording.
- Local leaders are working to restore calm and prevent further violence.
- Community fears of a broader sectarian conflict are rising.
Damascus, April 30 (NationPress) - Fighting has escalated in the southern suburbs of Damascus, fueled by growing sectarian tensions, as reported by a prominent monitoring organization in Syria.
Renewed confrontations involving light and medium arms, including RPGs, were observed in Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, according to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
Gunfire and at least one explosion, believed to be a mortar shell impact, were reported in both Sahnaya and Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, leading the General Security Directorate to impose night curfews in these areas.
As the violence persists, SOHR indicates that the death toll has reached 18, comprising nine residents from Jaramana, Sahnaya, and Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, alongside nine members of pro-government forces.
Additionally, at least 15 individuals sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. The casualty figures are poised to increase due to the ongoing turmoil.
The clashes emerged after unrest in Jaramana, reportedly triggered by an audio recording circulated online that was deemed offensive to Islam, allegedly created by a member of the Druze community.
This incident has escalated sectarian tensions throughout various regions of Syria, affecting university towns such as Aleppo and Homs, with indications that the unrest may be spreading further, as noted by Xinhua news agency.
In a related incident, unidentified assailants reportedly targeted al-Thaala military airport in the Druze-dominated Suwayda province using medium arms and mortar shells, although no casualties have been confirmed at this time. Syrian Ministry of Defence units are stationed at the base.
Aerial surveillance by Israeli reconnaissance aircraft was also reported over Sahnaya on Tuesday evening, although no strikes were recorded.
In anticipation of further violence, Interior Ministry forces were deployed along the outskirts of Jaramana, prompting residents to flee the area. Several families evacuated, and three buses carrying Druze university students returned to their home provinces amid fears of retaliation, according to SOHR.
This latest wave of unrest has raised alarms regarding the potential for a broader sectarian conflict, as local authorities and community leaders strive to prevent the situation from spiraling further out of control.
Earlier on Tuesday, Syrian authorities and local community leaders in the Damascus suburb of Jaramana reached an agreement aimed at restoring calm following the recent deadly clashes.
Point of View
It is imperative to report on the situation in Syria with a focus on accuracy and clarity. The ongoing clashes in Damascus are a reminder of the fragile state of peace in the region. Our commitment is to provide comprehensive coverage while maintaining an unbiased perspective, ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard.
NationPress
Apr 30, 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the unrest in Damascus?
The unrest is primarily fueled by sectarian tensions following the circulation of an audio recording considered offensive to Islam, allegedly made by a member of the Druze community.
How many people have died due to the clashes?
The death toll has risen to 18, including both residents and members of pro-government forces.
What measures are being taken to restore calm?
Local authorities and community leaders have reached agreements to restore peace, while night curfews have been imposed in affected areas.
Are there fears of broader sectarian conflict?
Yes, the recent wave of violence has heightened concerns about the potential for a wider sectarian conflict across Syria.
What is the current situation in Jaramana?
The situation in Jaramana remains tense, with Interior Ministry forces deployed and residents fleeing the area amid fears of retaliation.
