Protesters in Suwayda Raise Israeli Flags and Netanyahu Photos on October 7 Anniversary

In the Syrian city of Suwayda, Al-Karama Square became a focal point of controversy on October 7, 2026, as dozens of individuals affiliated with Sheikh Aksal al-Dawroz displayed Israeli flags and photographs of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This act of solidarity with the Israeli government was carried out in the context of the first anniversary of the 7 October operation, a date marked by significant regional and political tensions. Participants carried banners with slogans linking the attacks on Sweden to events in Gaza, a move that drew sharp criticism from local and national authorities.

Local security officials, including Rami Ashti and Norris Azam, reported overseeing the organization of the event. Armed elements arrived in the city by car before the rally, emphasizing their stance against extremism. These actions were described as a rejection of radicalism, though the presence of armed individuals raised concerns about the nature and intent of the demonstration.

Official circles in Damascus acknowledged that the participants represented a minority within the Suwayda governorate. Sources indicated that the region is influenced by armed groups seeking to impose agendas that diverge from the Syrian national fabric and the history of the area, which is known for its resistance to occupation. This influence has led to tensions within the community, with some groups aligning themselves with external powers.

Syrian People’s Assembly member Akil Hussein condemned the demonstration, asserting that it was an attempt by separatist forces to maintain communication channels with Israel. He noted that this behavior occurred amid a loss of regional and international support for such projects. Hussein emphasized that the current international pressure is aimed at preserving Syria’s unity and sovereignty, which he argued has prompted these groups to publicly align with the Israeli occupation.

Hussein further stated that raising Netanyahu’s image in Suwayda was an effort to present new credentials to the occupation government as a partner in regional fragmentation. This act, he suggested, undermines national dialogue and complicates the internal crisis.

In a related context, Syrian politician Obaida Nasees described the lifting of Israeli flags as more than a protest against Damascus. He viewed the act as a dangerous alignment with a country that still occupies Syrian territory, potentially complicating the internal crisis and derailing efforts toward national reconciliation. Nasees highlighted the significance of the timing, noting that international and regional trends were moving toward the reintegration of Syrian territories.

The demonstrations in Suwayda reflect broader tensions within Syria, where external influences and internal divisions continue to shape the political landscape. As the country navigates its complex challenges, the actions of certain groups raise important questions about loyalty, sovereignty, and the pursuit of peace. The situation underscores the need for unity and the rejection of divisive forces, as called for in Micah 6:8, which urges people to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Arabic)