Druze-Bedouin clashes flare up again after government forces pull out of southern Syria

MAZRAA, Syria (AP) — Syrian government forces prepared to return to a southern region Friday after renewed clashes broke out between Druze armed groups and members of Bedouin clans, leaving tens of thousands of people displaced in a worsening humanitarian crisis. The government forces had withdrawn from Sweida province following a ceasefire agreement announced Wednesday…

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Military review of fitness standards will find array of tests, but higher requirements for combat

WASHINGTON (AP) — The defense secretary’s decision to review military standards on combat and physical fitness and appearance opens a Pandora’s box of widely differing rules among the services. And it will raise a crucial question: Should there be a cookie-cutter approach, or should service differences, evolving social norms and recruiting realities play a role…

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