Daijiworld Media Network – Damascus

Damascus' May 7: As Syria’s new leadership steps up its diplomatic outreach to rejoin the global community, it is simultaneously grappling with deepening sectarian unrest at home — a test of its ability to govern a nation still scarred by years of civil war.

Interim Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa arrived in Paris on Wednesday in his first official visit to a European nation since the ouster of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. According to Syria’s state-run SANA news agency, al-Sharaa is scheduled to meet French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss reconstruction, cooperation in energy and aviation, regional security, and the recent Israeli airstrikes on Syrian military sites.

The trip follows a significant diplomatic moment in New York where Syria’s new foreign affairs chief, Asaad al-Shibani, raised the new Syrian flag at the United Nations and held talks with senior US officials. Together, these moves signal Damascus' intention to end years of international isolation and attract support for economic recovery.

However, back home, rising sectarian strife threatens to derail the government’s efforts. A series of violent clashes in southern Syria, particularly in Druze-majority areas like Jaramana, Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, and Sweida, have left more than 100 dead, as reported by the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

The unrest erupted after an audio clip surfaced allegedly containing derogatory remarks about Islam, reportedly made by a Druze community member. What followed was a deadly confrontation between local Druze fighters and pro-government forces. While a ceasefire was quickly implemented in Jaramana, tension flared for longer in Sweida and Ashrafiyat Sahnaya.

The Syrian government responded with both force and diplomacy, deploying troops and initiating talks with local leaders. However, Druze religious leaders have called for international intervention, prompting Israel — which has its own Druze minority — to issue warnings and conduct airstrikes on Syrian military facilities.

"The situation is a dangerous reminder of how fragile Syria’s internal unity remains," said Syrian political analyst Mohammad Nader al-Omari. “These are explosive mines threatening national cohesion, and they risk dragging the country into renewed chaos.”

In a statement, Syria’s National Building Movement urged all parties to end the violence, disarm militias, and begin a national dialogue. The group also called for a transitional constitution, inclusive governance, and a judicial mechanism for transitional justice.

“This moment requires political courage and a commitment to justice, participation, and equal citizenship,” the statement said.

Analysts warn that unless the new leadership swiftly addresses sectarian grievances and rebuilds inclusive institutions, Syria could face renewed instability. “There is no external solution to Syria’s problems,” al-Omari posted on Facebook. “It must come from within — starting with accountability, healing, and dialogue.”