Druze spiritual leader condemns attack on Suwayda Governor
SUWAYDA, Syria (North Press) – A spiritual leader of the Druze community in Suwayda, southern Syria, said on Thursday that the recent attack on Suwayda Governor Mustafa Bakour was an isolated incident, stressing that those responsible must be held accountable.
Sheikh Hamoud al-Hinnawi told North Press “What happened is not only condemned—it is categorically rejected.”
On Wednesday, the city of Suwayda in southern Syria experienced heightened tensions after an armed group stormed the governorate building and expelled Governor Bakour. The incident occurred following the arrest of a young local man by a security agency on criminal charges.
“Such behavior contradicts the values and morals of the Druze community, which we have upheld throughout our history. It was an individual act, and the perpetrators must face justice,” al-Hinnawi stated.
A local source told North Press that the incident was widely condemned by residents and religious authorities in Suwayda, who viewed it as a dangerous precedent that undermines the authority and dignity of state institutions.
Al-Hinnawi reiterated his rejection of the attack, “This type of behavior has no place in our society. It stands in stark contrast to the principles we live by. It is unacceptable, both socially and religiously.”
He described Governor Bakour as “a highly respected figure who represents the official authority tasked with safeguarding public order—an immense national responsibility.”