In a televised interview, Minister Al-Mustafa said the deteriorating security situation in Sweida left the government with no choice but to intervene militarily. He expressed regret that some local factions sought international protection, describing their actions as a betrayal of the Syrian state.

“This chaos targeted the state and created tensions that led to the current bloodshed,” Al-Mustafa said. He emphasized that Interior Ministry and Defense Ministry units only acted after repeated attempts at compromise had failed.

He directly referenced the spiritual leadership of the Druze community, notably Sheikh Hikmat Al-Hijri, whose recent calls for de-escalation appear at odds with armed groups resisting government authority. The minister urged those “who have strayed from the national consensus” to return to reason and work toward reconciliation.

Security Clashes And Negotiations Continue

The Sweida operation began after violent clashes erupted between Bedouin tribes and local Druze factions over a string of mutual abductions. The confrontation left over 30 dead and dozens injured, prompting the Syrian army and internal security forces to intervene, enforce a curfew, and move into the city center.

Government sources say the objective is to protect civilians, restore order, and prevent armed groups from using residential buildings as shields. However, opposition figures and Druze leaders accuse the regime of undermining local autonomy.

Talks are reportedly ongoing between Damascus and Druze representatives to establish a localized security arrangement — a demand repeatedly raised by the influential “Men of Dignity” militia. So far, no ceasefire has been confirmed.

Al-Mustafa’s remarks underscore the Syrian government's insistence that it remains the sole legitimate authority and will not tolerate what it views as separatist or externally influenced activity.