As-Suwayda tensions rise after raid on Atef Hneidi’s home

Tensions have escalated in the As-Suwayda governorate following an attack on the home and guest house of Atef Hneidi, a local figure known as ‘al-Pasha’. The incident occurred after Hneidi issued a statement criticizing remarks made by Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri regarding the relationship between the Druze community and Israel.

Reports indicate that unidentified armed groups, described by local authorities as being affiliated with al-Hajri, stormed Hneidi’s residence in the town of Al-Majdal, using hand grenades during the assault. Hneidi was subsequently removed from the area and has since arrived in Damascus.

As-Suwayda Governor Mustafa al-Bakour condemned the raid, stating the incident is “not a passing event” and raises serious concerns regarding the future of civil peace in the province. The governor emphasized the importance of respecting the sanctity of homes and warned against the use of force to impose opinions, asserting that “As-Suwayda is larger than any armed group.”