Syrian forces withdraw from Suwayda

Syrian government forces have completely pulled out of Suwayda province following several days of deadly sectarian clashes in the Druze-majority region, witnesses and a war monitor reported on Thursday.

The withdrawal marks a significant shift in control in the strategic southern province, which has seen rising unrest in recent weeks.

In a televised statement, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa confirmed the move, saying that "responsibility" for security in the area would now rest with religious leaders and select local groups.