Middle East, July 21, (V7N) – Saudi Arabia has reportedly called for the deployment of Syrian government forces in southern Syria amid escalating sectarian conflict in the region. The request was made in a phone call between Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to a report published by Middle East Eye, citing a U.S. official.

The report claims that Riyadh also urged the United States to consider deploying troops in the area to prevent further deterioration of the situation, particularly in the Sweida region, which has become a flashpoint in recent months.

In addition, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reportedly expressed anger at recent Israeli airstrikes targeting Sweida and Damascus, two areas with significant civilian populations. Multiple Middle Eastern news outlets, referencing the Saudi state news agency, confirmed that the Crown Prince condemned the strikes during a phone conversation with Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara'.

During the call, bin Salman is said to have praised President Shara’s efforts to de-escalate tensions in the war-torn country. This move reflects Riyadh's shifting position on Syria and comes as part of broader regional realignments.

The backdrop to this geopolitical development is the long-standing conflict between the Sunni Bedouin communities and the minority Druze population in southern Syria. The city of Sweida, home to approximately 700,000 Druze, has witnessed renewed violence recently, fueled by allegations of kidnappings and sectarian retaliation.

While Israel claims its military operations aim to protect minorities, including the Druze, critics argue that the strikes are exacerbating tensions and undermining stability in the region.

Saudi Arabia’s stance marks a significant diplomatic message, urging both Washington and Damascus to take concrete steps in addressing the crisis in southern Syria.

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