Syria Launches Probe into Sectarian Violence as Minority Tensions Rise

Syria's newly established governing body has announced the formation of a committee to investigate attacks on civilians amid the recent sectarian unrest in the southern province of Sweida. Officials indicated that violence earlier this July resulted in the death of hundreds, displacing thousands more, and placing Syria's delicate postwar transition into jeopardy.

The conflict erupted following a series of retaliatory kidnappings between armed Bedouin clans, largely Sunni, and the Druze minority. Intervention by Syrian government forces favored the clans, prompting a backlash from affected communities. Disturbing media depicting public humiliation and killings of Druze civilians has escalated tensions.

The Justice Ministry stated the inquiry aims to uncover the events' circumstances, prosecute those involved, and submit a comprehensive report within three months. A prior investigation on Syria's coast revealed extensive civilian abuses perpetrated by both new security forces and local militias, drawing questions about the new administration's commitment to justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)