National Committee probing Sweida events pledges justice and accountability

Syria’s National Committee investigating the July Sweida events said on Sunday that it is committed to uncovering the facts, determining responsibility, and ensuring justice for victims. The committee also outlined progress in its ongoing inquiry.

Speaking at a press conference in Damascus, committee head Judge Hatem al-Naasan described the incident, which left casualties and caused significant damage, as requiring a “credible and effective” investigation that meets legal standards. He emphasized that the committee operates independently and applies both Syrian criminal law and international humanitarian and human rights law, including the Geneva Conventions.

Al-Naasan explained that the committee’s mandate includes probing grave violations, identifying suspects, and referring cases to the judiciary. He stressed that the committee is committed to independence, neutrality, and balanced engagement with all parties. It also maintains transparency and objectivity when assessing facts, while keeping data and deliberations confidential. He added that the committee has full authority, and anyone found responsible for violations will be held accountable under Syrian law.

According to al-Naasan, investigation teams have visited attack sites and displaced-person locations in Damascus countryside, Idleb, Daraa and Sweida, gathering physical evidence and analyzing attack patterns. They also met with ministers, local officials, religious leaders, residents, families of victims, displaced people and survivors. The committee has documented 495 testimonies and conducted additional interviews with forensic and security personnel.

Investigators also reviewed and verified video footage, cross-referencing it with witness accounts and field reports to reconstruct the timeline of events. The committee has requested the arrest of several army, security, and civilian personnel suspected of involvement in abuses.

Al-Naasan said the committee will seek an extension of its mandate due to challenges that prevented it from completing all fieldwork in Sweida. He described the July events as “a crime that affected Syrian society as a whole,” emphasizing that the investigation aims to establish the truth, ensure accountability, and prevent future violations.

Source: SANA