Sweida’s demonstrations demand "right to self-determination”

Protests were held in Al-Karama Square in central Sweida, as well as in the city of Shahba and the town of Qarya in the countryside. Demonstrators called for the right to self-determination, the immediate release of all abducted men and women, and disclosure of the fate of the missing.

During the demonstrations, Druze symbols were raised alongside US and Israeli flags, while protestors carried banners reading: “The right to self-determination is a legitimate right,” “Bring back the abducted men and women,” “No agreements at the expense of the Druze community,” and “We call on international powers to support Sweida’s independence.”

Participants affirmed their commitment to their right to live and determine their own future within their areas, stressing that their demands stem from legitimate civil and political rights. They urged relevant authorities to respond and to work on protecting civilians and safeguarding their rights.

Since last July, Sweida has witnessed a wave of intensified local actions demanding self-determination, following an attack launched by transitional government forces and affiliated militants on the city and its countryside, which left more than 2,000 residents of Sweida dead and over 300 others abducted.

A-H 

ANHA