Prisoner exchange in Sweida between Syrian forces and Druze fighters

Syrian government forces and Druze-run local authorities conducted a mediated prisoner exchange in Sweida, with the government releasing 61 people and Druze authorities releasing 25, facilitated by the ICRC and described by officials as the result of international and local efforts. Undetermined at this time.

Syrian government forces and Druze militiamen in southern Sweida carried out a prisoner exchange at a checkpoint in the al-Matuna area on Thursday. The transfer was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross and was presented by officials as the result of combined international and local efforts amid ongoing efforts by the United States and Jordan to broker a political settlement. This exchange is being described by participants as a rare sign of progress after clashes in the region last summer. Undetermined at this time. What officials said: - The Syrian government handed over 61 prisoners to local authorities in the Druze-run parts of Sweida. - Local authorities in Sweida released 25 people at the al-Matuna checkpoint. - The ICRC facilitated the transfer, and Syrian Interior Ministry officials said the deal reflected efforts by international and local parties. - A Sweida National Guard spokesperson said the arrangement was made via the ICRC and international guarantors without direct contact with the Damascus government. Summary: The exchange is being reported as a first major sign of progress in talks involving the United States and Jordan to address tensions in Sweida and as an operation facilitated by the ICRC. Undetermined at this time.