Health Minister says Israeli aircraft preventing medical convoy from entering city, noting airstrikes targeting any moving vehicle
Syria's Health Ministry said Wednesday that dozens of civilians and security personnel were found dead inside the Suwayda National Hospital after armed groups it described as “outlaws” withdrew from the facility.
“Dozens of bodies were found in Suwayda National Hospital after the withdrawal of groups operating outside the law,” it said in a statement.
“Examination of the bodies revealed they belonged to members of the security forces and civilians inside the hospital,” it added.
The Defense Ministry said earlier that “armed outlaw groups” had taken up positions inside the hospital and deployed snipers on rooftops, where they targeted army forces.
Health Minister Musab al-Ali told the state-run SANA news agency that Israeli aircraft are preventing a medical convoy sent by the ministry from entering Suwayda, noting airstrikes are targeting any moving vehicle.
He said the convoy includes 15 ambulances staffed with medical teams, 10 surgeons from various specialties and two trucks with medications and medical supplies.
The Interior Ministry confirmed a new ceasefire agreement Wednesday in Suwayda, which includes full reintegration of the province under central government authority, according to SANA.
The deal was announced amid Israeli strikes targeting Damascus, Suwayda and Daraa in southwestern Syria.
The Israeli army claims the operations are to protect the Druze minority.
Clashes erupted between armed Druze militias and Bedouin groups in Suwayda after both sides reportedly seized vehicles from each other.
The Interior Ministry said more than 30 people have been killed and nearly 100 injured in the violence.
