Forced Evictions in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya Neighborhood Spark Concern Over Human Rights Violations

Forced Evictions in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya Neighborhood Spark Concern Over Human Rights Violations
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The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights has reported ongoing forced evictions targeting impoverished families in Damascus’ Al-Sumariya neighborhood, many of whom belong to the Alawite community. Authorities have reportedly ordered the full evacuation of the area, threatening demolition of homes with bulldozers for non-compliance.

Local sources indicate that numerous families have already left, while others remain under increasingly difficult conditions, citing the lack of alternative housing and limited time to relocate. The short evacuation notice, combined with high transportation costs and the worsening economic crisis, has left many residents in distress.

Eyewitnesses report that the eviction process has involved violence, including the use of electric batons and forced entries into homes. Two young men were allegedly detained, and official property documents were torn in an apparent attempt to pressure residents to leave. Photography and documentation of the events have been strictly prohibited.

While some families have relocated to the Mazzeh 86 district, others remain homeless. A previous intervention by Alawite figures close to the presidential palace had temporarily eased tensions, but promises to provide solutions were not fulfilled. The Syrian Observatory condemns the evictions, calling for legal accountability, humane treatment of residents, and an end to intimidation tactics in displacement operations.