Sweida protesters call for humanitarian corridor, decry civilian massacres

 A new protest took place today in Sweida, with civil society activists, human rights advocates, university students, and civic movement participants taking part.

The protest was organized to demand the opening of a humanitarian crossing to Jordan and the provision of safe routes for civilians and students, especially in light of the recent military escalation and violations in areas such as the coast, Jaramana, and Ashrafiyat Sahnaya. These events have led to hundreds of casualties among both civilians and military personnel.

Protesters carried signs condemning what they described as “brutal massacres” committed against civilians in those regions. They called on international human rights organizations and global powers to urgently intervene to stop the violence and provide humanitarian protection for residents.

There were clear calls for a humanitarian crossing to Jordan, allowing Syrian university students to continue their education in Jordanian institutions and helping families find safe haven.

Activist Nagham Radwan told our agency during the sit-in at Dignity Square: “The regional and international silence over what’s happening has become a crime in itself.” She stressed that Jordan has a stake in what’s happening in Sweida, adding, “If Sweida falls, it means Jordan is also under threat... We are pleading for the opening of the Mercy Crossing before we are collectively wiped out.”

Radwan also called for solidarity with Druze communities everywhere and voiced support for Israel’s position, describing it as “the primary defender of the Druze in the region.”

The protest also featured chants demanding an end to forced displacement and the targeting of educational and healthcare infrastructure. Protesters reaffirmed their commitment to national unity and rejected any partitioning agendas, warning that what is happening in southern Syria threatens the country’s social fabric and civil peace as a whole.

Organizers urged continued peaceful demonstrations in the coming days until their demands are met—chief among them the opening of the humanitarian corridor to Jordan—and to ensure that the voices of the region reach international forums.

They also hinted at the possibility of civil escalation if official indifference to the protesters’ demands continues. Many expressed deep disappointment over the lack of serious response to the growing humanitarian disaster unfolding daily in Sweida and its surroundings.

a.k

ANHA