Local media outlet Sweida 24 reported that the city and nearby villages were heavily shelled with mortars early Wednesday. The Syrian Defense Ministry accused “outlaw elements” of violating the truce and called on civilians to remain at home and report remaining armed fighters.

According to Syrian state media, the government’s military response targeted those groups responsible for attacking security forces. Meanwhile, Druze factions claimed that the government used the ceasefire to reposition and relaunch its assault on civilian areas.

Death Toll Mounts Amid Sectarian Tensions

The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights stated that the death toll had risen to 248, including 64 Druze fighters, 28 civilians—some allegedly executed by Syrian security forces—and 138 government personnel and police, alongside 18 Bedouin fighters.

The clashes were initially sparked by rising tensions between Druze communities and Bedouin groups, before escalating into broader sectarian and anti-government unrest.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned the Syrian government's actions and warned that the IDF may escalate its military response if the targeting of Druze populations continues in Sweida.