Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, spiritual leader of the Miwehidîn Muslim (Druze) community, condemned the attacks carried out by the Syrian Transitional Government forces against the people of Suwayda.
Al-Hijri stated that civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, were killed in these attacks, homes were burned down, and water, electricity, and food supplies were cut off, imposing a widespread embargo. He described the events as “a silent genocide plan that violates national humanitarian law.”
The media distorts the truth
In his statement, al-Hijri said that digital media affiliated with the transitional government legitimized violations under the pretext of “ensuring security,” and harshly criticized these media outlets for distorting the truth.
Emphasizing the importance of international solidarity, al-Hijri thanked the US, Gulf countries, and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria for their “humanitarian aid” in support of the Suwayda cause.
Appeal to the international community
Al-Hijri stressed that an independent international investigation should be launched into the crimes committed in Suwayda and that those responsible should be referred to the International Criminal Court (ICC). He also called for the deployment of international observer missions to protect civilians and for the cessation of political and military support to armed groups in and around Suwayda.
Ceasefire and withdrawal of militias
Calling on the guarantor states to pressure the transitional government to comply with the ceasefire and refrain from further violations, al-Hijri stressed that all militias must withdraw from the administrative borders of Suwayda. He said that this would allow the people to return to their villages and homes.
‘People are taking up arms to protect their honor’
Finally, al-Hijri called on the people of Suwayda to unite, saying that the people are taking up arms only to protect themselves and their honor, and that they would stand against attacks.