UN Report Calls for Investigation into Sectarian Violence in Syria

A recent United Nations report has highlighted severe violations committed by Syrian government forces during sectarian clashes in Sweida last summer, which resulted in the deaths of at least 1,700 individuals, predominantly from the Druze religious minority. The UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Syrian Arab Republic has urged the Syrian government to investigate these violations, particularly the actions of its security forces that allegedly facilitated or organized attacks against the Druze community.

Times of Israel

The 85-page report indicates that approximately 200,000 people were displaced due to the violence, which included targeted sectarian attacks and abductions. The clashes began in mid-July when armed groups linked to Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri engaged with local Bedouin clans, prompting government forces to intervene on the side of the Bedouins. The report notes that the violence led to significant destruction, including the looting and burning of nearly all Druze religious sites in affected villages.

Times of Israel

The report details the aftermath of the violence, stating that many bodies were discovered months later, often burned or mutilated. Hospitals in Sweida and neighboring Daraa province were overwhelmed, with morgues unable to accommodate the influx of deceased individuals. The report emphasizes that the violence has inflicted severe sectarian harm on the Druze population, leading to ongoing displacement and a lack of viable reconciliation efforts.

Times of Israel

Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa has pledged to investigate the events and hold accountable those responsible for the violence, including members of the government forces. However, the UN report criticizes the Syrian government for its apparent inaction, stating there is "no indication" that any investigations have taken place. The report calls for the identification and removal of security leaders who allowed the violence to occur.

Times of Israel

The report has drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly from the Druze community in Israel, where leaders have expressed outrage over the violence against their Syrian counterparts. Some young Druze men from the Golan Heights have reportedly crossed into Syria to join the fight against Bedouin fighters and government forces, reflecting a deep concern for the safety of their community.

Times of Israel

While the UN report provides extensive documentation of the violence, it does not specify the exact number of perpetrators or the full extent of the government's involvement in the clashes. Additionally, there are discrepancies regarding the number of casualties and the timeline of events, indicating a need for further investigation.

Times of Israel

“Particularly, the Druze population has been subjected to severe sectarian violence, leading to massive displacement that is expected to persist for an extended period,” — UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry

Times of Israel

“Nearly all Druze religious sites in those villages… were looted, burned and vandalized,” — UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry

Times of Israel

“Hospital staff and first responders were forced to allow the burial of bodies before they could be identified; while safeguarding records and images of where the body was found and when, and of remaining clothing or jewelry, body marks or tattoos where available, to aid subsequent identification,” — UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry

Times of Israel

“Damascus needs to address whether “certain practices are tolerated” within elements of its security agencies, the report said, referring to the violence.” — UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry

Times of Israel

“Some of the bodies were found months after the ceasefire, some on streets or in fields, and in other instances burned or mutilated, the report said.” — UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry

Times of Israel