Sweida announces formation of unified national army under name “National Guard”

The statement declared that this new formation aims to consolidate military and defensive efforts under a single umbrella to confront what it described as "Salafi-jihadist gangs" that have targeted the area in recent years.

The statement emphasized adherence to the spiritual leadership of the Druze community, represented by Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri, recognizing it as the sole legitimate authority reflecting the mountain’s stance. It also affirmed that the “National Guard” will serve as the official military institution of the Druze community, carrying out defensive duties in coordination with various allied forces.

The signatories renewed their pledge to "sacrifice everything valuable" to protect Jabal al-Arab and preserve its Ma'arri identity, affirming their commitment to "principles and dignity until the last drop of blood."

The new formation was endorsed by a large number of local factions, including: Gathering of the Mountain’s Sons, Mountain Youth Relief, Mountain Brigades, Counter-Terrorism Forces, Sheikh al-Karama Forces, Al-Ulya Forces, Local Forces, Mount Tod Forces, The Conquerors, Den of the Mountain Forces, Hamza Knights Forces, Southern Sun Forces, Dhiab Hamza Forces, Al-Fahd Forces, Guardians of the Frontiers, Sultan Forces, Sword of Justice Forces, Al-Ghayara Relief, Al-Nashama Relief, Shield of Al-Lajat Forces, As-Suwayda Operations, Khayyal Group, Thunder Banner – Ta’ara, Shield of the Mountain Forces – Zain al-Din, Banner Relief – Activated, Mountain Tribes, Druze Protection Units, Al-Asail Forces, and Unified Army

ANHA