Arab Tribes Mobilize to Support Bedouins Amid Rising Tensions in Suwayda
Representatives of several Arab tribes declared that their deployment to Suwayda is aimed at supporting Bedouin communities they claim have come under attack by forces loyal to prominent Druze religious leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — Arab tribes across Syria have mobilized fighters to Suwayda province in a show of solidarity with Bedouin tribes, amid growing tensions with local Druze factions.
In a joint statement issued on Thursday, representatives of several Arab tribes declared that their deployment to Suwayda is aimed at supporting Bedouin communities they claim have come under attack by forces loyal to prominent Druze religious leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri.
“The forces affiliated with Hikmat al-Hijri have committed serious violations against civilians, including the forced displacement of some tribal members from Suwayda, which we find unacceptable,” the statement read.
The tribes asserted their right to defend those they described as oppressed and vulnerable. “We are fulfilling our moral and tribal duty,” the statement continued, “and we call on the Syrian government not to obstruct the arrival of fighters who are coming to aid their Bedouin brothers.”
Citing concerns over violence against women, children, and the elderly, the tribes stressed the need for urgent action to prevent further abuses.
Footage circulating on social media last night showed columns of tribal fighters en route to Suwayda, fueling fears of a possible escalation of violence. Local observers have expressed concerns that the situation could deteriorate if not addressed through dialogue and restraint.
