Two Druze factions in southern Syria willing to join new Syrian army PHOTO

Two prominent Druze factions from the southern Syrian governorate have declared their readiness to join a newly formed Syrian army following the downfall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime.

In a joint statement posted on Facebook on January 6, the factions Rijal al-Karama (Movement of the People’s Dignity) and Liwa al-Jabal (Mountain Brigade), two of the largest military groups in Suwayda, announced their full willingness to integrate into a new military organization. Their goal is to serve as the core of a unified national army dedicated to protecting Syria, Caliber.Az reports, citing Arabic media.

The factions emphasized their firm opposition to any sectarian or factional army that uses power to suppress the people, referring directly to the forces under Bashar al-Assad’s rule. The statement also called for the activation of civilian and political actions in the country, based on the principle of inclusive citizen participation, which prioritizes the people’s needs.

Furthermore, Rijal al-Karama and Liwa al-Jabal reaffirmed their commitment to protecting public infrastructure and ensuring stability in the country until safety and security are restored.

Earlier reports had revealed the new administration’s intentions to dissolve numerous armed groups in Syria and consolidate them into a single, unified army. This development came despite assurances from Sheikh al-Akla to the Druze community that no weapons would be transferred until a clear vision for the future of the armed forces and the Syrian military organization had been established.

Syria has recently initiated a crucial step in its military restructuring process, with Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra announcing the commencement of sessions aimed at integrating various military factions into the Ministry of Defence. 

Abu Qasra confirmed that the initiative seeks to merge all military factions under one institution, aiming to streamline the country's military structure and enhance coordination within a unified framework. The move aligns with the new administration's plans to consolidate power and establish more efficient governance in Syria's defence sector.

Ahmad al-Sharaa, the newly appointed leader of Syria’s administration, emphasized that the integration process will unify the fragmented forces and place them under the control of the newly established New Syrian Army. This restructuring is viewed as a crucial step toward stabilizing the country after years of internal conflict and shifting allegiances among various factions.

By Khagan Isayev