Damascus, Syria – The United Nations and several Western governments on Thursday called for an immediate ceasefire and a full investigation into reported human rights violations in Syria’s southern Suwayda province, where days of clashes have killed dozens.
U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged an end to the violence and said all parties must ensure the protection of civilians. He called on the Syrian government to guarantee justice and accountability for alleged abuses.
The U.N. rights office said it received “credible reports” of summary executions, arbitrary killings, abductions, looting, and destruction of private property involving Syrian government forces and local armed groups, including Druze factions and Bedouin tribes.
U.N. Special Envoy for Syria Geir Pedersen said he expressed “deep concern” to Syrian Foreign Minister Assad al-Shibani and called for restraint and the protection of all communities. He also urged renewed focus on the stalled political process and condemned “Israeli provocations.”
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France, in a separate statement, demanded full adherence to ceasefire obligations, protection of civilians, and immediate accountability for violations. The European Union echoed calls for an end to hostilities and respect for Syrian sovereignty.
In Lebanon, Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Sami Abil-Mona condemned the violence in Suwayda and rejected what he described as “calls for division or Israeli protection.” Lebanese politician Walid Jumblatt called for a fact-finding commission and a nationwide dialogue.
The U.S. State Department reaffirmed that U.S. policy on Syria remains unchanged and urged the Syrian government to launch a transparent investigation into the Suwayda incidents. Washington also called on all parties to de-escalate and engage in serious negotiations toward a lasting ceasefire.
Suwayda, a province with a Druze majority, has seen some of its worst violence in years following clashes between local militias, government forces, and tribal elements. Rights groups say civilians have borne the brunt of the escalation.
