Syria will deploy new forces to the south to stop deadly clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups, the presidency announced Friday. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa urged restraint and pledged to protect the Druze community, blaming “outlaw groups” for rejecting dialogue, according to BBC.

Over 700 people have died since violence erupted near Suweida on Sunday, with reports accusing government troops of killing civilians and carrying out extrajudicial executions.

Israel reportedly struck Syrian positions to pressure a withdrawal from the area. A ceasefire deal between Syria and Israel, brokered with support from Turkey and Jordan, was announced by US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack, though both sides have yet to confirm it publicly.

Israel also agreed to a 48-hour entry of Syrian Internal Security Forces into Suweida to protect Druze civilians.

UN human rights Chief Volker Turk condemned the violence and called for accountability, citing credible reports of summary executions by both state forces and local armed groups, BBC reported.