The violence in the Druze-majority city was some of the most brutal in Syria since Bashar al-Assad was toppled in December.

Syria’s president declared a ceasefire after nearly a week of sectarian bloodshed in the south, but civilians said there was no let-up in the violence.

Syrian troops are trying to intervene in sectarian violence in the south between the Druze minority and Bedouins. Israel said its strikes were to protect the Druze.

Syrian troops are trying to intervene in sectarian violence in the south between the Druze minority and Bedouins. Israel said its strikes were to protect the Druze.

Syrian troops are trying to intervene in sectarian violence in the south between the Druze minority and Bedouins.

The fall of Syria’s dictatorship last year brought the end of a long and bloody civil conflict — but no quick relief to millions of Syrians living in the war-shattered nation.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and others in the region have sought closer relations with Iran over recent years in hopes of fostering stability.

The aging leader’s message was defiant but somber, delivered in front of a tan curtain flanked by an Iranian flag and a portrait of his predecessor.