Paragraph 1: One year after the violence in Suwayda, southern Syria, the Druze community recalls the events that began in July 2025. Fighting between Bedouin militias and Druze groups escalated, with violent actions also involving government forces. Information from monitoring organizations indicates hundreds of deaths among civilians and Christians in the region.
Paragraph 2: The clashes began after an armed incident and the kidnapping of a Druze man between Suwayda and Damascus, triggering retaliatory kidnappings and armed confrontations. In response, Israeli strikes against positions linked to those involved occurred, broadening the impact on the population. The SOHR and others documented numerous fatalities and significant damage to regional infrastructure.
Paragraph 3: The Christian communities experienced homes burned and churches damaged or destroyed, with more than 80,000 displaced. Even after the regime change in December 2024, the area remains insecure, with occupancy of residences and challenges in returning displaced families. Local leaders emphasize ongoing instability and the need for support to rebuild housing, churches, and livelihoods.
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