“Protest in Suwayda Demands International Probe, Humanitarian Route”
SUWAYDA, Syria (North Press) – Civilians, local activists, and representatives of humanitarian groups held on Friday a protest in al-Karama Square in central Suwayda, southern Syria, demanding international action in response to a worsening humanitarian crisis and recent violence in the region.
Protesters called for the formation of an independent international investigation committee to examine reported violations in the governorate. The demonstrators rejected a government-announced committee, saying it lacks transparency and public trust.
On Thursday, Syria’s Ministry of Justice issued a decree to establish a committee to investigate the recent events in Suwayda, following weeks of unrest that left hundreds dead and wounded.
Over the past month, Suwayda has witnessed a sharp escalation in violence, with clashes breaking out between local factions, tribal groups, and government-affiliated forces. The confrontations have resulted in over 2,000 casualties, including fatalities and injuries, according to local sources and medical workers.
Participants in the protest also urged for the immediate opening of a humanitarian corridor into the city to alleviate growing shortages in essential supplies. Residents accuse government forces of imposing a blockade on Suwayda, which they say has exacerbated the crisis. The pressure has further intensified with the arrival of large numbers of displaced families fleeing the western countryside, where security forces reportedly raided homes and detained residents.
Eyewitnesses told North Press that the raids contributed to a wave of internal displacement, placing additional strain on local communities already suffering from a lack of medical care, fuel, and food.
During the protest, demonstrators held banners calling on the international community to assume responsibility, warning that the humanitarian and security situation in Suwayda has reached a dangerous threshold. “The situation is unsustainable,” one protester said, speaking on condition of anonymity. “We need urgent intervention to protect civilians.”
The gathering remained peaceful and ended without incident, though local organizers say they plan to hold additional demonstrations if demands for independent monitoring and humanitarian access are not met.
The situation in Suwayda reflects the broader humanitarian challenges facing southern Syria, where state institutions remain weakened, and access for aid organizations is restricted. Local initiatives continue to emerge in response to unmet needs, often in coordination with grassroots actors.
No official response has yet been issued by international bodies regarding the protesters’ calls.