Sweida, Syria – A Syrian source has accused forces loyal to Druze Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajari of continuing attacks against Public Security forces in the western countryside of Sweida governorate. The accusations mark the third consecutive day of reported clashes.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the source told DZWatch that groups described as “outlaws” and the so-called “National Guard” affiliated with Hikmat al-Hajari, attacked Public Security positions late yesterday. These positions, according to the source, were acting as conflict resolution forces in the vicinity of the villages of Rima Hazem, al-Majdal, Wulga, and Tel Hadid, located west of Sweida city.
The source further stated that a number of Public Security personnel sustained injuries while repelling the alleged attacks. The source claimed casualties among the attackers, including fatalities and injuries, and the destruction of a vehicle carrying armed elements.
“The goal of the Public Security forces is to work towards stabilizing the region and facilitating the return of its residents,” the source emphasized. “However, the repeated attacks and shelling with rocket-propelled grenades by these outlaw elements are hindering the return of the displaced, even targeting those harvesting olives in their farms.”
Separately, a local source in the eastern countryside of Daraa reported that a vehicle carrying elements loyal to Sheikh al-Hajari was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade, resulting in casualties and the complete destruction of the vehicle.
According to information received from within Sweida governorate, the source claimed that over five fatalities and ten injuries have occurred during the Public Security’s response to the alleged attack in the governorate’s western countryside. The source dismissed reports of Public Security casualties and the circulation of fabricated names as an attempt to boost the morale of pro-al-Hajari elements.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Sweida, Mustafa al-Bakour, has reportedly condemned what he described as violations committed by certain factions and the so-called “National Guard,” including attacks on conflict resolution points. He stated that such actions constitute a clear violation of international agreements and obstruct efforts to rehabilitate the area and prepare for the return of residents to their villages.
DZWatch is continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
