Syrian minister unveils three-phase plan to restore stability in Sweida

Syrian Information Minister Hamza Al-Mustafa said on Saturday that the measures taken by the government in Sweida aim to protect civilians and prevent further escalation, following months of unrest in the southern governorate.

Mustafa stated that Damascus responded to calls from international mediators to avoid a military confrontation or a full-scale war, which he said could derail Syria’s development path. However, he accused armed groups in Sweida of taking a “provocative” approach, engaging in acts of revenge and systematic displacement.

The state is responsible for protecting all citizens, Mustafa stressed, adding that the unrest in Sweida was not new and that political solutions had been pursued from the outset. He said the chaos fueled by elements of the Military Council had deepened existing social tensions.

The minister outlined a three-phase plan to restore stability in Sweida:

Phase one: Deploying internal security forces as peacekeepers in the western and northern countryside and along key roads outside major cities to prevent clashes.

Phase two: Opening humanitarian corridors between Daraa and Sweida to facilitate the safe passage of civilians, the wounded, and anyone wishing to leave the area.

Phase three: Gradually restoring state institutions and expanding the presence of internal security forces once the ceasefire is consolidated, to return to normal life and enforce the rule of law.

Mustafa said the plan reflects the state’s national duty and commitment to Syria’s unity. He stated that the unity and liberation of Syria are the aspirations of all Syrians. The absence of the state has proven to be the problem, while its presence is the solution.

The minister also accused armed factions in Sweida of rejecting political solutions and operating with a “closed mindset” that disregards Syria’s territorial integrity.

He confirmed that security forces would work to enforce the law and ensure the release of detainees on both sides of the conflict.

Mustafa concluded by urging all parties to act responsibly. He added that the state always seeks political solutions, even at the expense of many issues. Syria, according to Mustafa, can accommodate all its people, and needs rationality and a unifying national discourse.