UN: No progress on Sweida peace plan as Syria’s Druze tensions persist

Efforts to stabilize southern Syria and repair divisions in the Druze-majority province of Sweida have stalled, according to a United Nations official. Nearly a year after deadly sectarian violence, a UN investigation revealed that over 1,700 people, primarily from the Druze and Bedouin communities, were killed in July 2025. The investigation suggested that Syrian government forces, tribal fighters, and Druze armed groups may have committed war crimes during the clashes.

Claudio Cordone, UN Deputy Special Envoy for Syria, informed the Security Council that a government-led roadmap launched in September 2025, aimed at restoring order and fostering reintegration, has seen no progress. Unresolved underlying issues persist, exacerbated by calls from some Druze for Sweida to secede, which threaten Syria's territorial integrity. The Druze, while dominant in Sweida, are a minority within Syria as a whole.

Kidnappings, counter-kidnappings, and rivalries among Druze factions continue to undermine security in the province. This instability has impacted essential services, with 13,500 students in Sweida unable to take national examinations this month due to failed mediation efforts over exam locations and security. This marks the second consecutive year many students have missed crucial exams.

Syrian officials, including Sweida Governor Mustafa al-Bakour, blame Druze armed groups for hindering progress. They claim these factions obstruct efforts to restore state institutions and improve services. However, Druze leaders argue they are protecting their community following last year's violence and accuse Damascus of eroding trust through its actions during the clashes. The situation in Sweida remains a significant political and security challenge for Syria's transitional authorities.

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There has been no progress on the implementation of the September 2025 roadmap of confidence-building and reintegration in Sweida.