Global News Podcast Syria withdrawing its army from Druze-majority Sweida city
9 snips
Jul 17, 2025 
Tom Bateman, the State Department correspondent, provides insights into the recent withdrawal of Syrian forces from Sweida city amid ongoing tensions. Lina Sinjab, BBC's correspondent based in Beirut, discusses the implications of Israel's military involvement and the humanitarian crisis resulting from continued conflict. They also touch on the precarious diplomacy between the U.S. and Israel, stressing the challenges of delivering aid in war zones. The episode dives into a groundbreaking three-person IVF technique, marking a significant leap in genetic technology.
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Sueda's Dire Conflict Situation
- The city of Sueda is severely affected by indiscriminate shelling and snipers making movement risky.
- A local surgeon described the situation as gangs targeting civilians over sectarian divisions, not state action.
Israel's Strategic Concerns in Sueda
- Israel aims to protect the Druze and prevent jihadist fighters near its border.
- It seeks to keep the buffer zone secure and limit Syrian military presence in Sueda.
Syria's Weak Military and Israeli Strikes
- Israel's military strikes aim to prevent jihadist advances and maintain border security.
- Syrian forces remain weak post-Assad, avoiding open battles with Israel's strong army.