US condemns deadly Syria clashes, urges Damascus to probe and hold perpetrators accountable

By Reuters 17 July 2025, 6:40 pm

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The United States unequivocally condemns the violence in Syria’s predominantly Druze city of Sweida in recent days and Damascus must investigate all reports of abuse and hold people accountable, a US State Department official says.

The official tells Reuters there is no change in US policy toward Syria, where in the south scores of people have been killed in days of conflict pitting Druze fighters against government troops and Bedouin tribes.

“All parties must step back and engage in meaningful dialogue that leads to a lasting ceasefire,” the official says, requesting anonymity.

“The government must investigate all reports of abuse and hold the perpetrators accountable,” the person adds.