Syria's Druse Militias Resist Integration into New Government's Forces

Despite efforts towards military unification post-civil war, Druse militias remain hesitant to integrate into Syria's new army, fearing their rights might be undermined.

In the rugged province of Sweida, southwestern Syria, the distinct and resilient Druse community trains diligently, keeping alive their heritage while navigating a complex political landscape. Under the command of Fadi Azam, a military instructor, dozens of recruits sprint between makeshift barricades, honing their skills in anticipation of an uncertain future where the new government, formed after the ousting of the long-standing president Bashar al-Assad, aims to unify differing militia factions into a cohesive national army.

The Druse territory, strategically located near Jordan and Israel, is pivotal to Syria's future stability. Following nearly 14 years of civil war, the Islamist-led government, while trying to forge control over the nation, is confronted by a formidable challenge: assimilating powerful militias who emerged during the conflict. The urgency for a united military is clear, offering a semblance of order and authority across the nation; however, these goals have proven difficult to achieve.

Since January, key Druse militia leaders have engaged in negotiations with the new interim government, deliberating on their role within the newly proposed military framework. The Druse leaders express skepticism about the government's assurance to safeguard minority rights, casting doubt on the commitment of the interim president to uphold diverse community interests. These reservations highlight a broader concern among ethnic and religious minorities in a landscape marked by the legacy of violence and loss. As these conversations unfold, the future of Syria's Druse militias, and their potential contributions to a unified national force, remains precarious and uncertain.