Syria’s transitional government admits its forces’ violations in Sweida

In an official statement released today, the transitional government in Syria acknowledged the occurrence of “grave and regrettable” violations in Sweida, describing the incidents as “criminal and unlawful behaviors” that are unacceptable under any circumstances, and pledging to hold all those involved accountable.

The statement noted that ”the leadership has followed recent events in Sweida with deep concern,” claiming that the violations “do not align with the principles upon which the Syrian state is founded.”

The statement strongly condemned the “disgraceful acts” and declared the government’s “full commitment to investigating all incidents” and “holding accountable anyone found to be involved, whether individuals or foreign organizations.” This marked an official acknowledgment by the transitional government of the presence of foreign fighters and non-Syrian entities among its forces that attacked Sweida.

This official position follows human rights and field reports accusing the transitional government’s forces of committing severe violations in Sweida, amid local and international calls for a transparent investigation and comprehensive accountability.

The fact-finding committee formed by the transitional government was scheduled to release its report on the coastal massacres on the 10th of this month, after being granted an additional three-month extension beyond the initial one-month investigation period.

However, more than six days have passed since the scheduled release date, and no statement has been issued regarding the report. The reasons for the delay in publishing the investigation’s findings have also not been disclosed.

 A-H

ANHA