The Syrian government has reached an agreement for the integration of Sweida into state institutions, allowing local security forces to align with the Ministry of Interior. This agreement includes appointing a governor and a police chief, with community leaders affirming their commitment to national unity despite regional tensions, particularly concerning statements made by Israeli officials.
Recent reports indicate that the Syrian government has successfully negotiated an agreement with the residents and leaders of Sweida, a province with a significant Druze population, to fully incorporate it into state institutions. The agreement specifies that Sweida’s security forces will be integrated into the Syrian Ministry of Interior, ensuring that local police will be recruited from the province itself.
Additionally, the agreement allows for the appointment of a new governor and police chief for Sweida, who may not necessarily be local residents. President Ahmed al-Shara of Syria has engaged in discussions with Dr. Mustafa al-Bakour, the current governor of Sweida, along with several local activists, at a meeting held at the People’s Palace in Damascus.
During the meeting, participants discussed both national and local concerns, highlighting this as a pivotal moment in Syria’s history for pursuit of justice, law, and fair representation for all Syrian citizens, despite ongoing regional adversities and threats to national unity. Hekmat al-Hajri, a prominent Druze leader, reiterates their commitment to national unity and disavows any plans for division, emphasizing a unified Syrian identity.
Al-Hajri expressed that, “The unity of Syria, both land and people,” remains an unwavering principle for the Druze community, rejecting any notions of separation while focusing on maintaining their cultural identity. The Druze community, mainly concentrated in the Sweida region, constitutes approximately 3% of Syria’s total population.
Tensions heightened in Syria following recent statements from Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, which insinuated potential consequences should the government act against the Druze. This was triggered by unrest in the Jaramana area, known for its diverse Druze and Christian populations. Druze leaders firmly rejected Katz’s remarks, reaffirming their dedication to Syria’s territorial integrity, a sentiment echoed by President al-Shara, who called for international intervention to ensure Israel’s withdrawal from southern Syria.
The Syrian government has reached a significant agreement with the leaders of Sweida, aimed at fully integrating the province’s local institutions within the state framework. This has been met with strong support from the Druze community, who maintain a commitment to national unity, rejecting outside pressures for division. The current geopolitical dynamics underscore the importance of regional stability and community cohesiveness amidst external threats.
Original Source: www.jordannews.jo
