Persistent demand for self-determination, "Independence" in Sweida

Various social groups in Sweida affirm that “independence is a right” in response to the policies of Syria’s interim government. This demand is rooted in the right to self-determination, amid ongoing kidnappings, sieges, and the lack of basic living necessities.

11 September, 2025 05:52

NEWS DESK

Popular protests continue in Sweida and its countryside following the recent military escalation in southern Syria in July of this year, which resulted in over 2,026 deaths and thousands of injuries. Calls for the right to self-determination persist in this context.

Several sectors of Sweida's society view independence as an inherent right, responding to what they describe as “violations and crimes” committed by the interim government in Syria. ANHA agency documented the opinions of activists regularly participating in demonstrations in public squares, where they express the reasons behind their insistence on independence.

Khaled Nasr, head of the political bureau of the Syrian Brigade Party, stated: “Sweida is currently under siege, deprived of the most basic necessities of life. Our students’ futures are lost, and shelters house over 150,000 of our brothers from 38 villages. Salaries for employees, especially teachers, have been halted for the third consecutive month without any clarification. Therefore, we demand the right to self-determination, the immediate opening of a crossing point, and the delivery of all aid to Sweida.”

Activist Nagham Radwan added: “Today, the people demand full independence from the current government in response to the massacres it has committed, which claimed the lives of men, women, children, and the elderly. This is coupled with the ongoing siege and the deprivation of patients from medicine, food, and medical supplies.”

The reasons cited by writer Raqiya al-Sha’er and activist Alaa Abu Mazhar echoed those previously noted by others, affirming their right to self-determination.

Meanwhile, human rights activist Samir al-Khatib sees no possibility of coexistence under the current interim government, which he described as an “extremist government.” He argued: “It is a disgrace to have such an extremist government. Therefore, we call on all human rights organizations and the United Nations to work towards the release of abductees and the restoration of villages that have been violated and destroyed by this government.”

ANHA