Widespread anger in Sweida over killing of farmers

The targeting of farmers and civilians in the town of Al-Matouna in the northern countryside of Sweida on February 7 sparked a wave of widespread anger and condemnation among residents of Sweida, after the attack, attributed to factions affiliated with the Syrian Interim Government, left four people dead and two injured.

Residents of Sweida and its countryside told ANHA agency that what happened represents a violation of international humanitarian law and an assault on civilians, urging international bodies and humanitarian organizations to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable.

They also stressed the need to take urgent measures to protect civilians and prevent similar incidents from recurring, warning of the repercussions for security and stability and the worsening humanitarian situation in the region.

They further expressed strong condemnation of what they described as deliberate targeting, saying it reflects the ongoing dangers threatening civilians, and called for international action to guarantee their protection and halt the attacks, amid rising fears of repeated crimes in the Sweida countryside.

Thousands of residents of Sweida and its countryside took part yesterday in the funeral procession for the victims amid an atmosphere of grief and anger. Citizens described the incident as a “crime against innocent people,” demanding an end to the repeated attacks on their areas. Residents confirmed that the victims were civilian farmers who had entered their lands after obtaining official approval from the relevant authorities.

A-H 

ANHA