The Druze are a prominent religious community of more than a million people spread across Syria, Lebanon and Israel, who for centuries have sought to preserve a distinct identity.In Syria, Druze fighters have clashed both with neighbouring Bedouin tribes and with forces loyal to the Islamist government,

At least 135 people have been killed at the Druze-majority city of As-Sweida since Sunday and many others humiliated by the assailants. The

Israel launched strikes on Syrian forces in southwestern Syria, emphasizing protection for the Druze minority amid ongoing conflicts. The clashes highlight challenges facing interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa and sectarian distrust.

The ceasefire followed deadly clashes between the Druze of Suwayda and Bedouin tribes that left over 100 people dead.

SWEIDA (Reuters) -A leading Druze spiritual leader accused the Syrian leadership in Damascus of bombarding the southern city of Sweida despite having reached an agreement to quell violence, and he called on fighters to confront Syrian troops entering the city.

Sectarian violence erupted again in southern Syria as local Sunni Bedouin tribes fought armed factions for the Druze religious community. The Syrian government dispatched troops to restore order, and Israel launched airstrikes to protect the Druze.

The mainly Druze residents of the Syrian city of Sweida had hoped the arrival of government forces on Tuesday would spell an end to deadly sectarian clashes with local Bedouin tribes.

The longer al-Sharaa acts on big issues and Israel intervenes in questionable matters not clearly threatening Israeli interests, the faster Israel may lose the key cards it holds in Syria.