U.S. Envoy Urges Calm and Inclusive Dialogue as Syria Condemns Israeli Strikes on Sweida

By Ahora Qadi

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The United States Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, called for calm and inclusive dialogue on Tuesday, amid escalating tensions in southern Syria following Israeli airstrikes and ongoing clashes in Sweida.

In a post on X, Barrack emphasized that Washington is “actively involved with all constituencies in Syria to navigate towards calm and continued productive integration discussions.”

He expressed concern over recent violent episodes in Sweida, saying, “The recent skirmishes in Sweida are worrisome on all sides, and we are attempting to come to a peaceful, inclusive outcome for Druze, Bedouin tribes, the Syrian government and Israeli forces.”

According to Barrack, the principal challenge now lies in countering “misdirection, confusion and inefficient communication,” which he said hinder efforts to secure a peaceful integration of all parties' interests. He stressed that “we are in direct, active and productive discussions with all sides to navigate towards calm and integration.”

We are actively involved with all constituencies in Syria to navigate towards calm and continued productive integration discussions. The recent skirmishes in Suwayda are worrisome on all sides, and we are attempting to come to a peaceful, inclusive outcome for Druze, Bedouin…

— Ambassador Tom Barrack (@USAMBTurkiye) July 15, 2025

Syrian Government Condemns Israeli Assault

Earlier on Tuesday, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strongly worded statement condemning the latest Israeli airstrikes on southern Syria. According to Damascus, the coordinated assault using drones and warplanes targeted multiple locations and resulted in the deaths of both military personnel and civilians.

Syria labeled the Israeli operation as a “heinous aggression” and an “egregious violation of international law and the UN Charter,” accusing Tel Aviv of seeking to destabilize the nation during a critical phase of reconstruction and reconciliation.

Damascus squarely blamed Israel for the escalation, demanding international accountability. “We call on the United Nations, the Security Council, and the international community to fulfill their legal and moral responsibilities by condemning this aggression clearly and effectively,” the statement read.

Defending Sweida’s Druze Community

In its statement, the Syrian government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting all Syrians—particularly the Druze community in Sweida, which has recently borne the brunt of violent unrest. It described the Druze as “an integral part of Syria’s national identity and unity” and praised their longstanding patriotism and sacrifice.

The government urged the Druze population “to stand united with their state and national army,” and to reject “suspicious agendas and chaotic appeals,” warning that history would not be kind to those who turned against their homeland.

Rising Tensions and Regional Implications

The situation in Sweidahas grown increasingly volatile, following Israeli strikes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed were aimed at protecting the Druze. The Israeli government cited its historic and familial ties to the Druze as justification for intervening militarily in the area, saying it aimed to prevent the Syrian regime from harming the minority group and to ensure the demilitarization of southern Syria.

Meanwhile, conflicting narratives persist, with the Syrian government asserting its right to defend sovereignty and national unity, while the U.S. and Israeli positions highlight a need to protect vulnerable communities and avoid escalation.

As the humanitarian and political crisis deepens, all eyes remain on diplomatic channels and international stakeholders to broker a sustainable path toward de-escalation and inclusive dialogue.