Escalating Conflict in Syria’s Jaramana City Results in Multiple Fatalities and Injuries
Intense confrontations broke out in Jaramana following the circulation of a provocative audio recording, which allegedly intensified sectarian divisions. The incident has led to widespread appeals for solidarity and governmental responsibility.
Violent confrontations erupted in the Syrian city of Jaramana, located south of Damascus, from Monday night into the early hours of Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of five local residents. Additionally, over ten individuals have sustained injuries and are currently undergoing medical treatment in the hospital.
According to reports from Syrian media, the town of Jaramana came under mortar fire on Tuesday morning, leading to injuries among civilians.
Reports from Syrian sources have verified that fierce skirmishes erupted on Tuesday at dawn near the capital. The confrontations involved gunmen allegedly linked to Syrian government security forces and local militants. The conflict resulted in two fatalities and eight injuries.
Reports indicate that similar clashes have erupted in the al-Qaws region of Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, located to the south of Damascus.
Violence broke out after an audio recording was shared on social media, which contained insults directed at Prophet Muhammad. The recording is attributed to a Druze cleric and is deemed a criminal act under Syrian law.
Several statements from Druze religious leaders have criticized the offensive recording. Nevertheless, armed groups initiated assaults on multiple Druze-majority regions situated south of the capital.
In a formal statement, the religious leadership of Jaramana’s Druze community denounced what they described as an “unjustified armed attack” aimed at “innocent civilians,” which also struck fear into local residents. They further asserted that the Syrian authorities hold “full responsibility for the incident and any subsequent developments or escalation of the crisis.”
At least thirteen Alawite civilians have reportedly lost their lives in Homs, Syria, in a recent wave of violence, according to local sources. The situation in the region remains tense following these tragic events. Further updates are anticipated as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
In a related development, a statement from the residents of Jaramana expressed mourning for six young individuals who were “unjustly” killed in what they described as a “heinous attack” on the city.
The statement strongly denounced the “sectarian incitement that preceded this act,” cautioning against engaging in provocations that serve the adversaries of Syria.
“The blood of our sons will not serve as the catalyst for a war driven by sectarian agendas as sought by those with criminal intent,” the statement emphasized, calling upon all Syrians to transcend sectarian divisions and rise above animosity.
The statement urged Syrian authorities to fulfill their obligations by initiating a prompt and transparent investigation and by ensuring accountability for all individuals involved in, inciting, or orchestrating the crime.
Amid intensifying hostilities, seven individuals have lost their lives in Syria’s Aleppo.
Early Tuesday, Syria’s Ministry of Interior released a statement asserting that it is “closely following” the widespread dissemination of an audio recording containing “serious insults” directed at Prophet Muhammad.
The Ministry announced that its specialized units have commenced an investigation, revealing that preliminary findings do not yet conclusively connect the accused individual to the recording incident.
The announcement emphasized that initiatives are actively being pursued to ascertain the identity of the individual responsible for the voice in the recording, with the intent to hold them accountable and ensure they receive the suitable penalty.
The Ministry extended its appreciation to citizens for their fervent support and dedication in defending the Prophet, while simultaneously advising the public to adhere to legal boundaries and avoid actions that may jeopardize public safety or result in violence and damage to property.
The Syrian authorities have reiterated their dedication to safeguarding religious sanctities, emphasizing the accountability of individuals who disrespect them. They issued a stern warning that any legal violations will be met with stringent measures to ensure the nation’s security and stability.
Despite these calls for restraint, certain statements and videos have emerged advocating for retribution against the Druze community.
A coalition of tribes in southern Syria has issued a formal demand for the extradition of Marwan Kiwan, accusing him of insulting Prophet Muhammad.
A statement has emerged threatening the Druze community with repercussions should Kiwan not be handed over. Accompanying this are videos depicting armed individuals brandishing swords and promising retribution.
Al Mayadeen’s correspondent has indicated that all factions in Syria’s predominantly Druze province of Soweida are on a heightened state of military alert.
The General Security Directorate has established checkpoints on every roadway leading to the city and has sealed off all entry routes.
The current tensions have rekindled concerns about possible massacres targeting the Druze community, echoing the brutalities experienced by the Alawite minority along Syria’s coast in the previous month.
