Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblatt called for reason and wisdom to prevail over emotional reactions. He emphasized that members of the Druze community are known for their foresight and rationality, not for acting on impulse, even in the darkest of times.
Jumblatt said condemnation should also extend to the ongoing Israeli aggression against Syria, as well as the near-daily violations targeting Lebanon, stressing that these developments demand both a rational and courageous response.
Addressing the events in Sweida, he called for the formation of an investigative committee to uncover the crimes committed against both the local Druze population and Bedouins, describing the situation as the beginning of a prolonged crisis and a dangerous sectarian split that many had hoped to avoid.
He concluded by calling for an immediate ceasefire in southern Syria, urging a serious and responsible dialogue between the Syrian state and Sweida’s local leadership to preserve what remains of national unity and stability.
Abi al-Mona Condemns Sweida Violence
On his part, Sheikh Sami Abi al-Mona, during an extraordinary meeting of the Druze religious council, condemned the recent violence in Sweida, Syria, voicing full solidarity with the local population and those wounded in the clashes.
Abi al-Mona stressed that mere condemnations are insufficient in the face of such grave violations, and refused to blame any residents of the Druze-majority region. Instead, he held the emerging Syrian state accountable for failing to establish institutions that protect its citizens.
He criticized the contrast between the Syrian government’s launch of a new national visual identity and the brutal scenes in Sweida, particularly assaults on Druze elders and children, whom he described as people of dignity with deep Arab and Islamic roots.
Calling for unity and national cohesion, Abi al-Mona warned against divisive rhetoric and rejected any form of sectarianism. He urged all sides to uphold the ceasefire signed two days ago and expressed hope for a peaceful and just future for Syria that would benefit Lebanon and the wider region.
He also condemned retaliatory attacks against Sunni communities, stating the council does not accept such acts under any justification.
Abi al-Mona issued a stark warning against calls for widespread mobilization and attacks on Sweida, describing them as attempts to ignite sectarian conflict. He also firmly rejected any Israeli interference in Syrian affairs.
He concluded by urging the international community to launch a transparent investigation into the violence and hold perpetrators accountable, emphasizing the need to prevent the unrest from spilling into Lebanon. He reaffirmed ongoing coordination with Dar al-Fatwa and stressed the importance of rejecting extremism and safeguarding regional stability.
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