Fighting Breaks Out in Damascus Suburb
At least 10 people were killed and 12 others were injured on Tuesday morning during violent clashes in Jaramana, a suburb south of Damascus, Syria. The fighting happened between Druze gunmen and fighters who support the Syrian government, according to activist group Suwayda24.
Anger Over Audio Clip
The clashes began after a voice recording spread online. The speaker in the clip was heard insulting Islam’s Prophet Muhammad. Some believed it was said by Druze cleric Marwan Kiwan, which caused anger among Sunni Muslims Marwan Kiwan denied being the man in the clip. He posted a video saying:
“I completely deny making this audio. I did not say these words. Whoever made this wants to start a fight between people.”
Government Begins Investigation
Syria’s Interior Ministry announced that it is investigating the audio clip. Early results showed that Kiwan was not responsible. The ministry asked everyone to stay calm and avoid taking actions that could harm public safety.
Druze Leadership Condemns the Attack
The Druze leaders in Jaramana also condemned the offensive audio, but they strongly criticized the armed response and the violence in their area. They called on the Syrian government to clarify the situation and protect the people.
Jumblatt Steps In to Help
Former leader of the Progressive Socialist Party, Walid Jumblatt, made emergency calls to Syria’s leadership, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan. He asked them to help stop the fighting in Ashrafiyat Sahnaya, another area affected by the violence. A statement from his party confirmed that these efforts led to a ceasefire, which began shortly before the announcement was made.
“Let’s handle this through the logic of the state and Syrian unity,” said Jumblatt.
Emergency Meeting in Beirut
In response to the crisis, the General Druze Council called for an emergency meeting on Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. at the Druze Community House in Verdun, Beirut.
The meeting will include Sheikh Sami Abi al-Muna, Walid Jumblatt, Druze ministers, MPs, judges, and religious leaders. They will discuss the violence in Syria and decide on a united position.
Lebanese Druze Leaders Responce
In response to the deadly clashes in Jaramana, Lebanese Druze religious and political leaders spoke out, urging for calm and immediate intervention.
The Sheikh Aql (Spiritual Leader) of the Druze in Lebanon warned that “suspicious plans” are being pushed by Israel to create more chaos in Syria. He stressed that the Syrian government must take responsibility by controlling extremist groups. He also called on influential countries to step in and stop the current security collapse.
He added that the Druze community rejects any attempts to divide Syria and stands by its Arab and Islamic identity. He also said the Druze refuse to be in conflict with any other Islamic sect, calling for peace and unity among all groups.
Meanwhile, Walid Jumblatt strongly condemned the insults made against Prophet Muhammad, calling for a clear and firm stance from all parties to reject such actions. Protesters even blocked roads in Aley to show their anger over what happened in Jaramana.
Jumblatt also said he is ready to visit Damascus again to discuss the demands and rights of the Druze, who he emphasized are an essential part of the Syrian people.
We are at the beginning of a new phase, either we are convinced of the necessity of living in a unified Syria with respect for diversity, or we will fall into the Israeli project that seeks to expel the Druze
