Syrian Information Minister: “We Understand Regional Specificities, but Weapons Must Be in the Hands of the State”

Kokcha News Agency: Syrian Information Minister Hamza Al-Mustafa stated that the Syrian government understands the unique characteristics of each region but remains committed to ensuring that weapons are exclusively in the hands of the state. This came during a press conference addressing the recent ceasefire agreement and developments in Suwayda province, which has witnessed clashes between Druze groups and Bedouin tribes.

Al-Mustafa outlined that the ceasefire agreement in Suwayda includes three phases:

1. Deployment of internal security forces to de-escalate clashes in the western and northern countryside of Suwayda and along major roads outside cities.
2. Opening humanitarian crossings between Daraa and Suwayda to ensure the safe passage of civilians, the wounded, and the injured.
3. Gradual activation of state institutions and the deployment of internal security forces in Suwayda following the consolidation of calm.

The Minister stressed that the steps taken by the state in Suwayda aim to protect civilians and prevent the escalation of conflict. He clarified that the government’s actions were not part of a pre-planned military campaign but a response to the outbreak of violence.

Al-Mustafa also noted that the state responded to calls from international mediators to avoid a military confrontation or open war that could hinder Syria’s developmental path. However, armed groups pursued a different approach, engaging in retaliatory acts and systematic displacement.

On July 13, 2025, limited armed clashes erupted between Bedouin tribes and Druze groups in Suwayda, prompting government forces to move into the area to restore security. However, they faced attacks from lawless Druze groups, resulting in the deaths of dozens of soldiers.

In efforts to contain the crisis, the Syrian government announced four ceasefire agreements in Suwayda, the latest of which was declared on Saturday morning. However, the previous three ceasefires did not hold, as clashes resumed on Friday following actions by a group affiliated with Hikmat Hijri, a Druze leader in Suwayda, who displaced members of Sunni Bedouin tribes and committed violations against them.

Al-Mustafa explained that the first phase of the latest agreement involves deploying internal security forces to de-escalate clashes in the western and northern countryside of Suwayda and along major roads outside cities to prevent further friction.

The second phase includes opening humanitarian crossings between Daraa and Suwayda to facilitate the safe exit of civilians, the wounded, and those wishing to leave Suwayda.

The third phase, which will begin after calm is restored, will involve the gradual activation of state institutions and the deployment of internal security forces in the province, ensuring the return of normal life and the enforcement of the law.

The Minister emphasized that Syrian security forces will work to enforce the law and de-escalate tensions, ensuring the release of detainees from both sides.

Al-Mustafa reiterated that the absence of the state in Suwayda has proven to be the root of the problem, and its presence is the solution. He pointed out that armed groups in Suwayda have been pursuing a provocative approach, rejecting any solutions and relying on a closed model that disregards Syria’s unity.

The Minister also criticized Hikmat Hijri, a Druze leader in Suwayda, for seeking protection from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for intervention in Suwayda. Al-Mustafa stated that Hijri made grave miscalculations by seeking help from the head of an occupying state, risking the safety of all Syrians in Suwayda.

Al-Mustafa reaffirmed that the Syrian state understands the specificities of each region and seeks negotiated and political solutions but remains committed to centralizing weapons under state control and integrating all groups into the national army.

He stressed that Syria’s policy is based on three pillars: one country, one government, and one army, which cannot be compromised.

The Minister concluded by stating that the national solution is the correct path for all forces to participate in shaping Syria’s future, and the state always prioritizes political solutions, even at the cost of many issues, as seen in Suwayda.

Earlier on Saturday, the Syrian Presidency announced a “comprehensive and immediate” ceasefire in Suwayda, warning that any violation of this decision would be considered a “clear violation of national sovereignty” and would be met with the necessary legal measures in accordance with the constitution and applicable laws.

In a televised address, Syrian President Ahmed Al-Shara called on the Arab tribes and the Druze community in Suwayda to stand “united” and adhere to the ceasefire, describing the situation as “sensitive.”