Eye of Syria's Sectarian Tensions
The recent outbreak of violence in As-Suwayda, southern Syria, which left over 240 people dead following fierce clashes between Druze factions and Bedouin gunmen, has generated widespread reaction across the Arab press. Commentators have debated the role of the Syrian state, foreign interference, sectarian tensions, and the future of national unity. This review summarises key opinions from prominent media sources, offering insight into how the Arab world interprets this critical juncture.
1. Elaph – A pan-Arab liberal news platform based in London
In an op-ed titled “The Druze and the Moral Question in an Age of Grey Alliances”, Dr Turkbi Al-Qublan reflects on the moral and political dilemmas facing Syria’s Druze minority. He warns against aligning with Israel—even tacitly—under the pretext of protection. Al-Qublan argues that such alliances undermine national sovereignty and tarnish political legitimacy. He emphasises that neutrality in a chaotic landscape may seem prudent but often results in exclusion from future political settlements. For Al-Qublan, true security lies in integration within the Syrian state, not in foreign-backed autonomy.
2. Okaz – A mainstream Saudi daily newspaper
Rami Khalifa Al-Ali, in “Syria: The State or the Non-State”, views the conflict as a reflection of a broader international shift towards reasserting state authority. He contends that global powers are increasingly backing strong, centralised governments capable of monopolising the use of force, and Syria must align with this trend. The proliferation of militias and multiple armed actors, he argues, has long undermined justice and stability. Al-Ali asserts that Damascus has no choice but to decisively reclaim control over all territories. He frames the As-Suwayda unrest as a test case for Syria’s return to full sovereignty.
3. Al-Sharq (Qatar) – A pro-government Qatari daily
In its editorial “Israeli Aggression on Syria”, Al-Sharq expresses Qatar’s firm condemnation of Israeli strikes on Syrian territory, including As-Suwayda. Citing statements from Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the piece criticises repeated violations of Syrian sovereignty and international law. It blames the international community’s inaction for emboldening Israeli incursions across Syria, Lebanon, and Palestine. The paper calls for increased diplomatic pressure, accountability, and a commitment to peaceful resolution through inclusive national dialogue. It emphasises Qatar’s support for Syria’s unity, independence, and the right of its people to live in dignity.
4. Al-Jazirah (Saudi Arabia) – A conservative-leaning daily
Khalid bin Hamad Al-Malik, in “As-Suwayda… Who Is Responsible?”, questions the origins and escalation of the recent violence. He criticises the involvement of Israel and blames both local factions and remnants of the old regime for aggravating divisions. Al-Malik urges the Syrian army to reassert control and restore order, arguing that armed groups have no legitimate claim to provide security. He warns against fragmentation, calling for the Druze to remain part of a unified Syrian state. The article calls for dialogue and condemns any cooperation with Israel as a betrayal of national unity.
5. Elaph – A second piece by Syrian writer Ibrahim Al-Yousef
In a deeply personal and emotive piece titled “The War of Extermination Against the Druze: As-Suwayda as a Symbol of Repeated Massacre”, Ibrahim Al-Yousef frames the events as part of a long-standing campaign against the Druze. He views the violence not as an isolated incident but as the continuation of historical persecution. Al-Yousef accuses the Syrian regime of enabling the attacks and draws parallels with the targeting of Kurds and Christians. He describes a deliberate effort to fragment Syrian society along sectarian and ethnic lines. Solidarity with the Druze, he argues, is a stand for pluralism and national survival.
Conclusion: A Fragmented Mirror of Syria’s Future
The Arab press response to the As-Suwayda crisis reflects the broader tensions shaping Syria’s post-war trajectory. Whether through appeals to national sovereignty, condemnation of foreign interference, or fears of minority erasure, these articles present a nation still struggling to reconcile its diversity with its unity.
There is a clear consensus that foreign alliances—particularly with Israel—carry immense moral and political risks. At the same time, many voices call for a strong, unified Syrian state with a single legitimate authority. Several commentators stress the urgency of inclusive governance and genuine reconciliation to avoid further descent into sectarian fragmentation.
Despite ideological differences, all the articles converge on one critical point: Syria stands at a crossroads. The choices made now—by the state, its minorities, and its regional neighbours—will shape not just the future of As-Suwayda, but of Syria as a whole.