US Envoy Tom Barrack Discusses Suwayda Situation with Social Media Personality Mario Nawfal

Tensions in Suwayda remain high as a key player in the region receives unexpected attention from US special envoy Tom Barrack.

Suwayda, a southern governorate of Syria, has been at the center of controversy due to its unique demographic makeup - it is predominantly inhabited by Druze people. The Syrian government does not have full control over this area, making it one of the few remaining pockets of resistance.

Barrack's recent conversation with an influential social media personality touched on Suwayda and a prominent local figure, widely believed to be Hikmat al-Hijri, who holds significant influence in the region as both a politician and a spiritual leader.

The US has been gradually rebuilding its relationship with the new Syrian government since President Bashar al-Assad's ousting in December 2024.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's views on the Syrian government differ significantly from those of his predecessors, particularly given the strong support he received from the US for his military actions in Lebanon, Palestine, and Iran.

Following the collapse of Assad's government, Israel launched a military invasion into Syria, seizing territory in Quneitra governorate and other strategic areas, including some that are crucial to the country's infrastructure.

Israel has continued to challenge President al-Sharaa's administration in Damascus through aggressive actions such as bombing the Ministry of Defence and harassing Syrian citizens in southern regions. These incursions have sparked outrage from Syrian officials who view them as a blatant disregard for their sovereignty.

Barrack, known for his direct approach to diplomacy, engaged with influential social media personality Mario Nawfal on Friday to discuss the situation in southern Syria, hinting that Washington prefers Damascus's control over Suwayda rather than an Israel-aligned group.

The situation in Suwayda remains volatile as Washington's stance on Damascus's control of the region becomes increasingly clear.

Syrian analyst Nanar Hawach noted that US remarks have exposed differences with Israel's approach to Syria, suggesting a divergence in their strategies for the country.

Suwayda residents had initially risen up against the al-Assad regime in 2023 due to worsening living conditions, but their protests continued until the regime collapsed in December 2024.

The collapse of the Baathist rule was met with both celebration and hesitation from Suwayda's Druze majority, who were wary of endorsing the new government.

Tensions escalated in July 2025 when fighting broke out between Bedouin tribes and Druze in Suwayda, resulting in sectarian killings and forcing the Druze to bear the brunt of casualties.

The involvement of forces linked to the government on the side of the Bedouins further complicated the situation, leading analysts like Hawach to speculate about Israel's intentions in the region.

The dynamics in Suwayda are complex, with Sheikh al-Hijri's leadership facing both support and skepticism from within the Druze community.

His authority tends to rise when the community feels threatened, but wanes as tensions ease, creating a delicate balance of power that is exploited by Damascus. The Syrian government's efforts to exert control over Suwayda are met with resistance from local leaders who seek greater autonomy.

In July 2025, violence broke out in Suwayda, prompting the US to initiate talks with the Syrian government in Jordan. A trilateral agreement was reached in Amman in September of that year, which called for an independent investigation into the events and the prosecution of those responsible.

However, despite this agreement, the situation in Suwayda remains unresolved, with many residents lacking trust in the government. The distrust is fueled by Damascus's heavy-handed approach to restoring control over the province.

The Syrian government's tactics have focused on pressuring local leaders, which has had a direct impact on residents' daily lives, from their salaries and children's education to access to basic services like transportation to the capital.

For Suwayda's residents to regain confidence in the Syrian government, accountability is a crucial step towards reconciliation.

Analysts emphasize that credible accountability for past events would be essential in rebuilding trust among the Druze population, who have been affected by the Syrian government's tactics and policies. According to Saban, "a durable settlement needs credible accountability for what happened" in 2025. This includes guarantees for protection of movement, education, and security, which are currently being compromised.