Khaberni - Sweida city in southern Syria witnessed a controversial demonstration today, Saturday, by followers of Sheikh Hakmat Al-Hajri, one of the spiritual leaders of the Druze sect. The demonstration included raising the Israeli flag and images of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with slogans calling for the right to self-determination, following the appointment of Safwan Belan as the Director of Education by the Syrian government, a decision which faced rejection from local forces in the city.
Recorded video clips shared on social media showed parts of the demonstration that took place in Al-Karamah Square in the center of the city, where Netanyahu's images and Israeli flags were raised, in a scene that sparked widespread reactions and criticism, amid accusations that the movement bears political messages that go beyond the local framework of the protest.
These developments come in the context of escalating tensions within the province, following the rejection of the new appointment of a Director of Education, which led to his resignation under field pressure.
The city is experiencing a state of security chaos and the presence of multiple non-aligned armed entities, according to Al Jazeera.
Supporters of Sheikh Hakmat Al-Hajri delivered a clear political message through the demonstration, adhering to their positions and rejecting the decisions of the Syrian government, culminating in demands related to separation or self-determination, concurrently with the faltering operation of official institutions in the province.
