Political Divisions Deepen in Southern Syria’s Druze Region as Calls for Security and Unity Grow
By Kardo Roj
SWEIDA, Syria (North Press) – Five months after the fall of the Assad regime, the southern Syrian governorate of Sweida remains engulfed in political fragmentation, rising security concerns, and a wavering path toward a cohesive national identity. Despite attempts at dialogue and incremental steps toward local governance, deep ideological divides threaten to widen an already precarious situation.
Multiple Currents, One Struggle
Sweida, historically a stronghold of Syria’s Druze community, has long been known for its political moderation and relative stability. However, the power vacuum following regime collapse has magnified ideological divisions, particularly regarding the future structure of the Syrian state.
“There are multiple political orientations in the governorate, all stemming from the chaos we’re experiencing,” said Sheikh Yusuf Jarbu’, a prominent Druze religious leader. Speaking to North Press, he added that while current divisions remain “within manageable limits,” there is mounting anxiety over potential escalation. Jarbu’ emphasized that only through enhanced security and economic revitalization can lasting stability be achieved in Sweida.
These concerns are echoed across the region, where local voices articulate varying—at times conflicting—visions for Syria’s future. Some advocate for a decentralized system retaining ties with Damascus, while others lean toward broader autonomy inspired by the governance model in northeast Syria, where the AANES and the SDF maintain stability and civilian administration.
A Fragile Political Spectrum
Dr. Nidal Abu Sibh, a member of the Professional Assembly in Sweida, traces the roots of the current discord to the 2023 protests. “Even before the regime’s fall, we differed in our roadmaps for building a state based on citizenship,” he told North Press. But with the rise of a transitional government—reportedly backed in part by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS)—deep distrust has emerged among factions fearing religious authoritarianism.
According to Abu Sibh, some residents believe the new authorities could pave the way for pluralistic governance. Yet others view them as a continuation of exclusivist policies under a new guise. “Syrians have shed blood for 11 years to build a democratic state,” he said. “We must unite the democratic forces to ensure this transition doesn’t descend into further fragmentation.”
Lawyer Aliya Qantar adds that the divide reflects an extension of prior tensions. “Some factions raise national demands aligned with the revolution’s ideals,” she told North Press. “Others seek foreign backing or unrealistic federalization that risks fragmentation.” Qantar stressed that while reform is necessary, separation from the Syrian nation is not an option.
Governance, Dialogue, and Distrust
Efforts at reconciliation have resulted in several initiatives. In March, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, the highest spiritual authority in the Druze community, reached a 10-point understanding with the transitional authorities in Damascus. The agreement focuses on reviving institutions and resolving local issues, though implementation remains limited.
Still, local military factions—including the “Men of Dignity Movement” and “Free Men of Jabal al-Arab”—continue to seek guarantees before engaging fully with Damascus. Their calls for international oversight and constitutional protections highlight enduring concerns over centralized rule and the legacy of past abuses.
Civil platforms have also emerged. In late March, activists launched the Civil Gathering in Sweida, aiming to strengthen citizen participation in shaping Syria’s future. This followed the establishment of a local political council that seeks to unify diverse actors under a common political vision.
Security Concerns Undermine Recovery
Above all, the yearning for safety dominates public discourse. “Without security, there can be no economy or progress,” Sheikh Jarbu’ emphasized. Armed groups, lawlessness, and a weak judicial presence have destabilized daily life.
Qantar warned that without accountability, “those who once enjoyed impunity continue to fuel chaos.” Dr. Abu Sibh remains cautiously optimistic, asserting that Sweida’s democratic traditions and rejection of extremism offer hope for a future state grounded in inclusivity.
Yet recent sectarian clashes near Damascus—resulting in at least 30 deaths—have reignited fears among minorities, including the Druze, of deepening societal fractures.
A Crossroads of Identity and Unity
Sweida stands today at a critical juncture. While its people resist extremist ideologies and continue to demand reform, the road ahead is clouded by internal division and external pressure. The absence of a central solution leaves room for local initiatives, but also heightens the risk of disintegration.
In this fluid landscape, calls for dialogue, national unity, and rule of law remain paramount. As the rest of Syria also navigates a post-Assad reality, the experiences of Sweida may offer both a warning and a roadmap for reconciliation in a country still seeking its future.