As part of its periodic reviews, the Syrian Future Movement, in its meeting held on August 11, 2025, discussed a symbolic issue related to reconsidering the honor previously bestowed on Sheikh Hikmat Salman al-Hijri on September 7, 2023. The honor, which was the “Syrian Future Movement Shield and Medal for Figures Who Supported the Syrian Revolution,” honored national figures who stood up against injustice and supported the Syrian people’s aspirations for freedom and dignity.
The honor was titled “Sheikh of Reason and Wisdom: Hikmat Salman al-Hijri”
and was published on the movement’s official website, expressing our appreciation for the sheikh’s previous positions in rejecting tyranny and championing justice.
After a thorough review of the latest developments, the Syrian Future Movement announces the following:
First, in our commitment to fairness in evaluation:
We affirm that the honoring of Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri at the time stemmed from a principled position, and we maintain this honor within its historical context, keen to document national positions that deserve appreciation.
Second, the suspension of the symbolic tribute:
We announce the suspension of the continued symbolic tribute to Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri. We consider the publication of this statement an evolution of our position on it, in line with the developments in the political and social reality in Sweida Governorate.
Third, the reasons for the suspension:
This decision is based on a series of practices and statements that we view as contradictory to the spirit of national action, most notably:
- His explicit call for Israeli intervention in Syrian affairs.
- His refusal to engage in the paths of a national solution and his disregard for the voice of reason in addressing the tragedy of Sweida.
- His continued blessing of taking up arms against the new Syrian state.
- His accusation of terrorism against the Syrian state and his efforts to separate Sweida from the national geography.
- His monopoly over the distribution of humanitarian aid, which serves his personal influence and reinforces the logic of individual leadership.
Fourth, our position on Sheikh al-Hijri:
We appreciate his previous role in supporting the revolution and reject his current course, which we view as extremist and separatist. We affirm that our position stems from our commitment to fairness in our assessment and rationality in our approach, far from personalization or emotion.
Fifth, a call to return to the national path:
We call on Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri to review his recent positions and return to a comprehensive national discourse that serves his community, preserves Syria’s unity, and contributes to building a just civil state for all Syrians.
We, in the Syrian Future Movement, believe that politics is not based on permanent enmity or absolute friendship, but rather on principles and the national interest. We extend our hand to all those who sincerely strive to build a new Syria, a state of institutions, justice, and citizenship.
Statement issued by:
Media Office
Syrian Future Movement
August 13, 2025
