UN calls for swift investigations after deadly clashes in southern Syria

Friday 18 July 2025 - 11:10

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called for “independent, prompt, and transparent investigations” following violent clashes in Suwayda, a predominantly Druze city in southern Syria, that have reportedly left nearly 600 people dead in a matter of days.

"This bloodshed must stop. The protection of all people must be the top priority," Türk said in an official statement on Friday, July 18. He emphasized the importance of accountability: “Violations must be investigated, and those responsible must face justice.” Türk also condemned incitement to violence and hate speech, urging both online and offline restraint.

The situation deteriorated this week after clashes erupted between Sunni Bedouin tribes and Druze fighters. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 2,000 families have been displaced amid escalating violence since Sunday.

In a controversial move, the Syrian government deployed its forces to Suwayda on Tuesday, ostensibly to restore order. However, multiple Druze groups, witnesses, and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) accused these troops of supporting the Bedouin tribes and committing serious abuses.

President Ahmad el-Chareh, Syria’s interim leader, ordered the withdrawal of government forces from Suwayda, claiming it was necessary to avoid an open war with Israel, which had threatened to intensify its airstrikes unless Syrian troops left the province.

The UN rights office reported receiving distressed testimonies from Syrians fearing for their lives. Türk criticized the Syrian government's use of force, saying, “State security forces should bring safety, not amplify fear and violence.”

He also raised concerns about civilian casualties resulting from recent Israeli airstrikes in Suwayda, Deraa, and central Damascus, stating: “Attacks like Wednesday’s strike in Damascus endanger civilians and must stop.”

Türk concluded with a warning: “Revenge is not the answer. Immediate measures are needed to prevent such violence from recurring.”