Authorities in Jarmana, a town in the Damascus countryside, have intensified security efforts following the killing of a security officer last week. The Syrian Security Forces, in coordination with local dignitaries, are working to restore order and apprehend those responsible for recent violent incidents. Despite initial tensions, negotiations between community leaders and security officials are progressing, aiming for a peaceful resolution.
Security Operations & Ongoing Investigations
The unrest began when armed members of the so-called “Jarmana Shield Brigade” attacked Syrian army personnel at a checkpoint, resulting in the death of one officer and the abduction of another. This act was followed by an assault on the local police station, where officers were expelled, and their weapons were seized.
In response, the Syrian Interior Ministry deployed reinforcements to Jarmana, setting up checkpoints and launching targeted security operations to track down those involved. Lieutenant Colonel Hussam al-Tahhan, Director of the Damascus Countryside Security Directorate, emphasized the state’s commitment to bringing perpetrators to justice. “The security services, in cooperation with the city’s dignitaries, are actively pursuing all individuals involved in these attacks,” Tahhan stated.
The religious leaders and notables of Jarmana have also taken a firm stance, issuing a statement urging the immediate surrender of those responsible for the violence. The statement reaffirmed the city’s deep-rooted Syrian identity and its historical ties to Damascus, rejecting any attempts to sow division.
Israeli Involvement & Political Reactions
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered occupation forces to “protect the Druze” in Syria and Jarmana— a move widely seen as a pretext to attempt to destabilize the new Syrian government. However, Syrian authorities have rejected any foreign involvement in the situation, asserting that security matters in Jarmana are an internal issue. Leaders from the city, including members of the Civil Action Group (CAG), have reiterated their commitment to working with the Syrian government to maintain stability.
The Men of Dignity movement, a prominent Druze movement from Suwayda, emphasized the incident was not a clash between security forces and militants but rather a personal dispute that escalated unexpectedly. Laith Al-Balaous, the movement’s leader, reaffirmed a commitment to stability, rejecting any external interference. He stressed the importance of cooperation between local dignitaries and the Syrian government. Balaous also dismissed Israeli claims of “protecting the Druze,” reiterating that Syria’s sovereignty must be preserved.
Negotiation & Stability
Despite initial clashes, the situation in Jarmana has calmed, with ongoing negotiations between security forces and local representatives. Damascus set a deadline for armed groups to disarm and surrender individuals wanted in connection with the attacks.
Authorities maintain that the events in Jarmana are not sectarian but rather the result of criminal activity. Officials stress that their priority is ensuring the safety of Jarmana’s residents and upholding the rule of law. “Our only concern is bringing those responsible for the violence to justice,” Tahhan emphasized, urging the local population to support efforts to restore security.
As discussions continue, community leaders remain optimistic that a peaceful resolution will be reached, reinforcing Jarmana’s longstanding role as an integral part of Syria’s social fabric.
