US Special Envoy Tom Barrack has expressed concern over renewed tensions in Syria’s southern Suwayda province and called on all sides to avoid further violence, show restraint and return to dialogue.
Barrack said the United States was disappointed by the latest escalation and emphasized that a peace roadmap agreed with Syrian and Jordanian officials aims to peacefully reintegrate Suwayda into Syria while protecting the rights and responsibilities of its Druze population.
He warned that weak governance could create space for armed groups and criminal networks to operate. Barrack also said his team was communicating with people affected by violence within the Druze community, including Atef Hunaidi, who he said had been detained and forced from his home.
The US envoy urged Druze communities, Arab tribes and neighboring countries to cooperate through tolerance and mutual understanding. He also welcomed efforts by the Syrian government to investigate serious crimes allegedly committed by its forces and bring those responsible before the courts.
A ceasefire has remained in place in Suwayda since July 2025, following deadly clashes between Bedouin tribes and Druze fighters that killed and injured hundreds. However, tensions and alleged violations have continued.
Barrack said lasting peace would require meaningful dialogue, accountability and improved security. He stressed that these steps could help displaced people return home and allow damaged communities to rebuild.
Following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, Syrian authorities have been working to restore state control and security across the country, although several armed groups continue to operate independently.
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