Syria's Islamist-led government struggled to implement a ceasefire in the predominantly Druze region of Sweida on Saturday, with machinegun fire and mortar shelling ringing out after days of bloodshed.

The Druze spiritual leadership in Syria were at the heart of a negotiated ceasefire agreement, which permits Druze civilians living in and around Suweida city, to leave on safe routes and ensures government security forces prevent Bedouin fighters from entering the area.