A group of residents from the southern city of Al-Suwayda staged a march that sparked considerable controversy and questioning, as slogans were raised expressing support for or solidarity with the Israeli occupation—coinciding with the anniversary of October 7th. Residents of the governorate and local influential forces were quick to reject this display on Wednesday, deeming it entirely at odds with the collective sentiment of the people of Al-Suwayda.
Field reports and observations indicate that the individuals spearheading this move are known by name—most notably Muhannad Mazhar, Rami Ishti, and Shadi Naeem. Evidence suggests that these individuals possess no popular or representative mandate and do not speak on behalf of the governorate's residents.
Reports also highlight that some of these individuals are linked to past criminal and security-related allegations—including accusations of kidnapping and drug trafficking—as well as suspicious ties to networks affiliated with the former regime's security apparatus. Examples include Muhannad Mazhar driving a stolen vehicle during the march, and the case of Shadi bin Shawkat Naeem, who had previously been released in a prisoner exchange deal brokered through tribal and official efforts before reappearing at the forefront of this movement.
"Al-Suwayda Is Not Them"
In response to these events, the voices of Al-Suwayda’s residents are rising—clear and decisive—to reaffirm the governorate’s fundamental principles: that "the Mountain," with its rich patriotic history, cannot adopt or align itself with the agenda of the occupation. The local community maintains that these individuals represent only themselves; their participation in such events reflects personal or narrow agendas that are entirely at odds with the dignity and stance of the Mountain’s residents, who are renowned for their patriotism.
A Call to the Syrian Public: Recognizing the Gravity of the Moment
Amidst these developments, a call goes out to the Syrian public: do not let this moment be exploited to judge an entire governorate based on the actions of individuals who stand outside the law and the national consensus. With its long history of preserving the national fabric and rejecting subservience, Suwayda is far too significant to be defined by a fleeting march, and its identity is far too noble to be reduced to the names of a few individuals who represent no one but themselves.
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