Sweida's Sectarian Strife: A Call for Accountability

Human Rights Watch has criticized the Syrian government for its lack of accountability over sectarian violence in Sweida province, resulting in hundreds of civilian deaths. The July conflict involved clashes between government-backed Bedouin clans and Druze militias. The government's response has been criticized as insufficient.

Human Rights Watch has condemned the Syrian government for failing to hold accountable those responsible for sectarian violence in Sweida province, where armed clashes erupted in July. The conflict, pitting government-backed Bedouin clans against Druze militias, resulted in hundreds of civilian deaths.

The rights group documented 86 unlawful killings, primarily targeting the Druze. Survivors reported government forces destroying property and committing summary executions. Simultaneously, Bedouin groups looted homes under government protection, while Druze militias conducted revenge raids against Bedouin civilians.

President Ahmad al-Sharaa faces challenges in maintaining control across Syria. Human Rights Watch believes that without accountability at senior levels and reform in Syria's security sector, cycles of violence and reprisals will persist.

(With inputs from agencies.)