Druze cleric killed in Syria's Suwayda after detention by armed faction

A Syrian Druze cleric has been killed in the southern province of Suwayda, according to reports from local media on Tuesday. The victim, identified as Raed al-Matni, was allegedly executed by an armed faction after being held for two days. This incident threatens to destabilize the fragile calm in a region that has experienced significant internal conflict.

Circumstances of the Arrest and Killing

Citing unnamed sources, the state-run Alikhbariah TV channel reported that Matni was killed by a group calling itself the "National Guard," which is affiliated with Druze leader Hikmat al-Hijri. The sources claimed the killing was carried out "on alleged charges of collaborating with the Syrian government." Matni's body was later transferred to Suwayda National Hospital. Syrian authorities have not yet commented publicly on his death.

Viral Video and Internal Druze Divisions

The killing follows the circulation of a viral social media video showing Matni being beaten during his arrest by Hijri's forces on Sunday. Syrian media described Matni as holding an important social and religious role in the eastern countryside of Suwayda. He was reportedly once close to Hijri but opposed the formation of the "National Guard" last July, leading to a rift. The Druze community in Suwayda is represented by three religious authorities, with Hijri's followers considered a minority faction.

Broader Context of Syrian Instability

The assassination occurs in a province that observed a ceasefire beginning July 19, following deadly clashes between Druze groups and Bedouin tribes. Since the ouster of long-time leader Bashar al-Assad in late 2024 and his flight to Russia, Syria has been under a transitional administration led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The new government has aimed to restore security and implement reforms, but incidents like this highlight the ongoing challenges of militia violence and internal fragmentation, developments closely monitored by neighboring Türkiye given their impact on regional border security.