Daijiworld Media Network - Damascus

Damascus, Apr 30: Syrian authorities and local leaders in Jaramana, a suburb of Damascus, reached a crucial agreement on Tuesday aimed at restoring calm after deadly sectarian clashes. The violence, which erupted early on Tuesday, left at least 14 people dead and dozens more injured, highlighting the deepening sectarian tensions in the region.

The agreement, outlined in a joint statement, includes four main provisions: compensating victims’ families, holding those responsible accountable, clarifying the truth to prevent further incitement, and ensuring safe travel between Damascus and al-Suwayda provinces.

The talks, attended by representatives from Rural Damascus, Druze sheikhs, and civil society figures from Jaramana, were the result of a high-level meeting. The agreement will be immediately implemented under the supervision of relevant government bodies.

The violence began after an audio recording, allegedly made by a Druze community member, circulated online and was deemed offensive to Islam. This led to intense clashes between local armed groups and unknown gunmen, with the death toll rising to 14—seven from Jaramana and seven associated with Syrian military forces. Fifteen others were reported injured, with the number expected to rise.

Security forces have been deployed to the city’s outskirts, and a curfew is being considered to stabilize the situation. Investigations are ongoing to identify the individual responsible for the recording, with authorities vowing to prosecute anyone involved in inciting unrest.

By Tuesday evening, calm had cautiously returned to the area. However, the clashes underscore the persistent sectarian divides that continue to destabilize Syria’s fragile security environment.