Druze leader warns of escalation in Syria’s Suwayda
SUWAYDA, Syria (North Press) – Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajiri, leader of the Druze al-Muwahhidun, in Suwayda Governorate in southern Syria warned on Monday the parties that seek escalation in region.
Al-Hajri’s warning came after the Syrian government forces sent military reinforcements to Suwayda in the past four days.
Al-Hajiri said that people of Suwayda are peaceful patriots. However, they are capable of defending their county, dignity, and rights when necessary.
In a statement, he warned the parties involved in escalation, movement, sabotage, and harm in the governorate, and held them responsible for the consequences that may result from any actions.
Al-Hajiri emphasized on moving forward in peaceful protests to demand rights legally through international laws, regulations, and constitution.
Last week, tension escalated in Suwayda due to several events that took place consequently, when the government forces arrested an academic student in Latakia. Then, local groups detained military and security officials of the government in Suwayda. As a result, the government forces sent military reinforcements to the governorate.
The Druze-majority governorate of Suwayda has been witnessing anti-government protests since August 2023, demanding the overthrow of the “Syrian regime”.