The Syrian government has secured an agreement with Sweida’s Druze leaders to integrate the province into state institutions, including local security forces and governance. This move underscores a commitment to national unity and local representation, despite recent tensions with Israel. The Druze community reaffirms their loyalty to Syria and rejects any division plans.
Recent reports indicate that the Syrian government has successfully reached an agreement with the inhabitants and leadership of Sweida to fully integrate this southern province, which is predominantly Druze, into governmental institutions. This arrangement includes assimilating Sweida’s security forces into the Syrian Ministry of Interior, further mandating that local police officers originate from the province itself.
As part of the agreement, the Syrian authorities will appoint a new governor and a police chief for Sweida. However, it is specified that these officials do not need to be locals. President Ahmed al-Shara has met with the current governor of Sweida, Dr. Mustafa al-Bakour, alongside local activists at the People’s Palace in Damascus to discuss national and local matters.
During this meeting, the importance of this pivotal period in Syrian history was emphasized, with discussions focused on establishing a nation characterized by justice, law, and equitable representation of all citizens. Participants noted the prevailing regional and international challenges facing Syria and the theories surrounding potential division of the nation’s integrity.
Hekmat al-Hajri, representing the Druze community in Syria, reiterated their dedication to national unity while firmly rejecting any notions of division. He affirmed their objective is to maintain their heritage, declaring, “The unity of Syria, both land and people,” is an unwavering stance from the community.
The Druze constitute approximately 3% of Syria’s population, centering their community in Sweida. Recent comments by Israeli officials provoked some unrest, as Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz remarked that any harm to the Druze community by the Syrian regime would result in consequences. This position was met with disapproval by Druze leaders who reaffirmed their allegiance to Syria and its sovereignty.
Amidst these tensions, President al-Shara urged the international community to advocate for an immediate Israeli withdrawal from regions in southern Syria, emphasizing the need to uphold Syrian unity against external pressures.
In conclusion, the agreement to fully integrate Sweida into Syrian state institutions marks a significant development in the region’s governance. It highlights the emphasis on local representation within security forces and the appointment of officials, while maintaining a commitment to national unity amidst external and internal pressures. The Druze community’s dedication to Syria’s sovereignty and their rejection of division is particularly notable in this context, as is the call for international support against external interference.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
