Rising Tensions in Syria’s Druze Community Amid Wave of Arrests in As-Suwayda
Rising Tensions in Syria’s Druze Community Amid Wave of Arrests in As-Suwayda
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Tensions are escalating within Syria’s Druze community following a series of arrests carried out by the “Special Guard” forces loyal to Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri in the southern province of As-Suwayda.
According to reports viewed by Shia Waves Agency, in recent days, the province has witnessed significant unrest after Special Guard units conducted a large-scale raid in the city of Shahba, detaining around ten well-known local figures. The arrests have fueled concerns about deepening internal divisions and growing political and security rivalries within the community.
According to a statement released by the Special Guard, the detainees were accused of “planning to create internal security disturbances” and preparing attacks that could target civilians, including women and children. The statement also alleged links between some detainees and opposition-aligned groups.
Among those arrested are several prominent figures, including Sheikh Raed al-Mutni, former head of the Military Council, as well as political figures such as Sheikh Assem Abu Fakhr and Ghandi Abu Fakhr.
Local sources say the move may be tied to attempts to prevent an internal “soft coup” within the Special Guard amid rising influence of rival groups associated with Leith al-Balous and Suleiman Abdel-Baqi, who have been expanding their presence in parts of the province.
Images circulated online showing the humiliation of Sheikh Raed al-Mutni — including forcibly shaving his beard — have sparked widespread anger among Druze residents, raising fears of potential internal strife.
Observers warn that the situation could evolve into a new phase of political and possibly violent confrontation if not quickly contained. Spiritual leader Moafaq Tarif, representing Druze in Israel, recently cautioned that such developments risk deepening internal rifts and urged Syrian Druze to determine their future without external interference.
Analysts say the current tensions and arrests risk further eroding trust among Druze factions and could destabilize As-Suwayda if the crisis continues to escalate.
