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Historic Prisoner Exchange: Syria and Druze Factions Reconcile

2/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On February 26, 2026, the Syrian government and Druze factions in Sweida completed a prisoner exchange, releasing 61 Druze prisoners for 25 government personnel, overseen by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The exchange is part of a U.S.-brokered peace initiative dating to September.
Negotiations led by Maher Al Shara aimed to ease tensions after summer clashes.

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Story summary

On February 26, 2026, the Syrian government and Druze factions in Sweida completed a prisoner exchange, releasing 61 Druze prisoners for 25 government personnel, overseen by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The exchange is part of a U.S.-brokered peace initiative dating to September.
Negotiations led by Maher Al Shara aimed to ease tensions after summer clashes.