Random vandalism threatens remaining antiquities of Daraa

Archaeological sites in Daraa are witnessing increasing acts of vandalism amid weak oversight and official incapacity to curb violations, posing a threat to the region’s cultural heritage.

7 February, 2026 11:59

NEWSDESK

Historical landmarks and archaeological mounds in Daraa are subject to ongoing destruction and depletion due to the rise of random and illegal excavations in extensive areas under the control of the Syrian Interim Government.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), excavation activities are no longer limited to primitive tools but have evolved to include the use of modern metal detectors, which have entered the region in large numbers. This has accelerated the pace of digging, caused severe damage to archaeological layers, and destroyed the historical context of the targeted sites.

The SOHR warned of the risks of losing a significant part of the region’s cultural and historical identity, calling on relevant authorities and international organizations responsible for protecting world heritage to take urgent action to stop the looting and ensure effective protection of archaeological sites, which are considered public property of the Syrian people.

A-H

ANHA