International Committee Investigates Violations in Sweida Amid Fragile Security Situation
The Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria, chaired by Paulo Pinheiro, announced the launch of a special investigation into events in Sweida, confirming its request to access the governorate during its recent visit. This announcement comes amid reports of a fragile security situation in the country, with tribal forces’ interventions in Sweida clashes revealing ongoing tensions.
Pinheiro noted that the human rights situation in Syria remains severe, despite a decline in systematic violations compared to the era of former President Bashar al-Assad. The commission’s latest report documented the killing of more than 1,400 Alawites in March 2025, some at the hands of security forces, welcoming statements by Syrian authorities regarding accountability while calling for transparent and tangible steps to ensure justice.
The commission also condemned repeated Israeli airstrikes on Damascus, Homs, Latakia, and Palmyra, which caused destruction and civilian casualties, alongside ongoing Israeli seizure of new lands in southern Syria and arbitrary detention of civilians.
Furthermore, the commission pointed to the failure of the March 10 agreement between Damascus and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast, which further complicates the security and political situation.
The commission continues its work documenting violations and supporting accountability efforts amid ongoing challenges on both security and political fronts in Syria.
