Syria vows to punish military-linked abuses in Sweida

The Syrian Ministry of Defense said Tuesday it is aware of reports of “shocking violations” committed by individuals wearing military uniforms in the Druze-majority city of Sweida, amid ongoing fallout from recent clashes in the area.

According to Reuters, a ministry statement quoted Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra as saying there would be zero tolerance for those responsible for the crimes, “even if they are affiliated with the ministry.”

“The harshest penalties will be imposed on the individuals who committed violations in Sweida, once their identities are confirmed,” the statement said.

The ministry added that the defense minister will personally oversee the investigations being conducted by a military violations committee.