Amnesty International reveals the results of an investigation into the events in Sweida
In a report highlighting one of the bloodiest incidents in southern Syria, Amnesty International has uncovered compelling evidence that Syrian government forces and affiliated groups were involved in extrajudicial executions of Druze civilians in Sweida Governorate last July.
The organization stated that the violations that occurred on July 15 and 16 came after government forces entered the city of Sweida under the pretext of “imposing stability,” and imposed a curfew that coincided with escalating sectarian tensions and clashes between armed Druze groups and fighters from Bedouin tribes.
According to the report, the organization documented the killing of 46 Druze civilians (44 men and two women) in field executions, carried out inside homes, public squares, schools, and even inside a hospital and a celebration hall.
Cases of mock executions of the elderly were also recorded, along with degrading treatment of Druze clerics.
Amnesty International reported that its analysis of digital evidence included 22 videos and photos taken between July 15 and August 10, showing armed men wearing military and security uniforms, some bearing official insignia, carrying out executions while riding in vehicles belonging to the Syrian Ministry of Interior.
Amnesty organization also interviewed 15 people from inside and outside Sweida, including eyewitnesses and victims’ families, some of whom provided firsthand accounts of witnessing executions or finding the bodies of their relatives.
In a notable move, the organization confirmed that it had contacted the Syrian Ministries of Interior and Defense on August 12 to request clarification regarding the government’s investigations into the events, but hadn’t received a response by the time the report was published.
Meanwhile, the Syrian presidency publicly condemned the violations on July 16, followed by an announcement from the Ministry of Justice of the formation of an investigative committee.
The Foreign Minister affirmed the government’s commitment to holding accountable all those involved in the events, regardless of their identity.
Despite these statements, Amnesty International believes the seriousness of holding those involved accountable remains questionable, particularly given the lack of transparency regarding the progress of the investigations and the fact that no party has yet been officially held accountable.
The organization concludes its report with a clear demand of the Syrian authorities: hold accountable all those responsible for these crimes and violations, without exception, and confront any sectarian escalation that threatens the social fabric of the region.
