In a remote mountainous area of southwestern Syria, a trainer led new recruits through rigorous drills, emphasizing the need for realism in their training. He motivated them by shouting to treat their exercises as if they were in actual combat situations.
The recruits are part of the Druse religious minority, whose militias play a significant role in the strategically important province of Sweida, located near Jordan and Israel. As the new Islamist government seeks to unify various militias into a national army, the Druse fighters are pivotal for Syria's future stability.
Negotiations between several prominent Druse militias and the interim government regarding integration into the national army have faced challenges. The Druse have expressed skepticism about the government’s commitment to safeguarding minority rights, particularly following recent violence against another minority group, the Alawites. This violence erupted after remnants of the previous regime attacked the new government's security forces.
The government's response to this violence involved mobilizing security forces, which resulted in retaliatory attacks against Alawite civilians, raising concerns among the Druse about the potential for further sectarian conflict.
In light of these tensions, Druse militia leaders have accused the interim president of consolidating power, with little initial representation for minority groups in the new administration. However, the president's recent announcements included appointments aimed at promoting a more inclusive government, though key ministries remain under the control of his allies.
Another influential militia, a Kurdish-led force in northeastern Syria, has tentatively agreed to join the national army but has not yet integrated, citing similar concerns as the Druse.
The interim president faces a critical decision: to either decentralize power and negotiate with various armed groups or risk ruling over a fragmented nation. Analysts suggest he currently has limited leverage in these discussions.
Amid the uncertainty, Druse militias have increased their numbers and established authority in Sweida, effectively acting as local security forces. Recruits have been involved in patrolling borders and staffing checkpoints, underscoring their commitment to regional security.
The commander of the Mountain Brigade expressed a desire to work with the new government while still emphasizing the need to retain their military capabilities until they are assured of a stable and inclusive governance structure. He stated that their participation would depend on the government’s performance.
Should the Druse militias align with the government, they could play a crucial role in maintaining security in southwest Syria against various threats, including those posed by the Islamic State and remnants of the former regime.
Israel's actions in response to the power shift in Syria have further complicated the situation. Israeli officials have expressed a commitment to preventing hostile elements near their border from gaining a foothold in Syria, and have indicated they would intervene to protect the Druse community.
While major Druse militias have declined Israel's offers for support, they have established informal agreements with the new authorities to receive aid while maintaining control over Sweida.
As the transitional government attempts to stabilize the region, local leaders and residents are expressing a mix of hope and skepticism about the future. Many residents are facing dire conditions but remain optimistic that the new political landscape could bring improvement after years of oppression under the previous regime.
Overall, the situation in Sweida reflects a complex interplay of local dynamics, sectarian tensions, and the challenges of forming a unified national military in post-civil war Syria.