Announcement of the start of investigations into violations committed in Sweida

The Syrian Future Movement expresses its deep concern over the circulating documented reports of grave violations in As-Suwayda Governorate, including the summary execution of civilians by unknown individuals wearing military uniforms between July 13 and 20, 2025.

Despite the importance of the announcement by the Ministries of Defense and Interior to open official investigations on Tuesday, July 21, 2025, the Syrian Future Movement believes that true accountability can only be achieved through an independent judicial system, under civilian and human rights oversight, that ensures justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators without institutional or political exceptions.

The Syrian Future Movement, based on the provisions of Syrian law, the principles of international humanitarian law, and international human rights conventions, affirms:

1. All those involved, both individuals and leaders, must be held accountable before an independent judicial body, in accordance with national criminal law and relevant international standards.
2. The identities of perpetrators of violations and those responsible for issuing orders must be revealed, and cover-ups or limited to internal investigations must be rejected.
3. These incidents must be included in national transitional justice mechanisms, including compensation for victims, documentation of facts, and guarantees of non-repetition.
4. The United Nations and international human rights organizations must be called upon to monitor the progress of investigations to ensure they adhere to the highest levels of transparency and integrity.
5. The building of a just national state begins with holding the security and military establishment accountable and establishing the rule of law over all authorities.

The Syrian Future Movement reiterates its principled position that the protection of civilians, justice for victims of violations, and accountability for perpetrators of crimes against them represent the fundamental pillars of any genuine democratic transition. We also hold the existing authorities legally and politically responsible for providing full guarantees for the conduct of investigations in accordance with international standards and ending impunity.

Despite the painful events that have taken place, the Syrian Future Movement believes that Sweida is not a battleground, but rather an integral part of the nation’s fabric. Preserving the dignity of its people is a test of the Syrian future we all aspire to.