Sheikh al-Hijri calls for unity and internal cohesion in Sweida 

Sheikh Hikmat Salman al-Hijri, issued a statement today addressing the people of Sweida, discussing the current conditions and challenges facing the region, including security, humanitarian, and living conditions. The statement said:

In these blessed days, and from our position in the spiritual leadership, we extend greetings of pride and dignity to our steadfast people in the proud Jabal Bashan. We begin by reaffirming our commitment to the martyrs of the mountain, praying for the speedy recovery of the wounded, and for the near freedom of those forcibly disappeared. Our firm pledge remains the complete liberation of all occupied villages and the restoration of our full rights with the determination of people of dignity.

Dear respected people and sons:

Jabal Bashan, through the awareness of its civil society and the cohesion of its structure, is today overcoming all attempts of economic siege, destructive administrative intrusion, and systematic starvation policies aimed at paralyzing institutions and cutting livelihoods. Our choice of freedom and self-determination is not subject to bargaining or conditional loyalties; the dignity of this mountain is above all considerations, and its rights stem from its deep-rooted history and present strength. No imposed authority or coercive power will find a place among us, and our position is firm: no authority or leadership over this mountain except that chosen by its people.

Despite all these visible attempts, what brings pride and reassurance is the awareness of our authentic people, the efforts of educated intellectuals, and the commitment of our diaspora and living consciences who have successfully conveyed the truth to international bodies. We are now, from a position of strength and right, engaging with the international community to take decisive measures to stop violations, lift the siege, and protect lives and dignity.

Our path is clear and our demands are non-negotiable. We insist on holding the “Damascus government” accountable for all violations and crimes under international law.

Our immediate goal is to enforce the internationally agreed solution in the July 2025 ceasefire, including returning abductees, revealing the fate of the forcibly disappeared, and liberating our affected villages and towns. We affirm that international partners and guarantors are making efforts to consolidate governance structures and full sovereignty over Jabal Bashan as a stable reality.

Dear people:

The scale of suffering and hardship, and every sacrifice made on our land, will not be wasted despite attempts to divide unity and exploit the blood of martyrs. We rely on your awareness and commitment, and your rejection of rumors and daily misinformation aimed at weakening resolve.

Those who forget recent events are not part of us and are not authorized to speak in our name.

Regarding external interference from parties with no legitimacy over us, we affirm clearly that our rights will be taken by our own strength and steadfastness. The mountain belongs to its people, and we are most capable of managing our affairs.

The commitment of the people of Jabal Bashan and their trust in technocratic administration is the basis of success. Defending the mountain and building its institutions is a collective mission.

We also extend thanks to states and organizations working on our cause, especially Israel and its people, and members of our community there, as well as all supporters worldwide.

Dear people:

As the blessed holiday approaches under exceptional circumstances and continued grief, and out of respect for mourning in every home, we hope that celebrations will be limited to religious rituals in designated places.

And may you be well every year in dignity and pride.

ANHA