25/09/2023

SYRIA: MEP Katrin Langensiepen expresses solidarity with As-Suwayda protests in phone call with Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri

BRUSSELS / AS-SUWAYDA, Syria — As the anti-regime protests in As-Suwayda, Syria, continue into their second month, the Syrian regime of Bashar al-Assad, faced with resilient displays of civic determination, is contemplated various responses, including the deployment of violence. However, amidst this delicate situation, both American and European authorities issued stern warnings against the use of force on peaceful protesters, reiterating their staunch support for their cause.

As-Suwayda, situated in Syria’s south, has a population of over 300,000 people, mostly Druze with a prominent Greek Orthodox Christian and Sunni Muslim minority.

Katrin Langensiepen, a distinguished Member of European Parliament for the German Green Party, has been a consistent supporter of the As-Suwayda protests and outspoken about the legitimacy of their demands.

During a recent phone call with Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, Langensiepen expressed profound concern for the safety and well-being of the Sheikh given the Syrian regime’s propensity for violence.

Langensiepen revealed that a novel European strategy is on the horizon, poised to be unveiled soon. Its overarching objective is to ensure that the Syrian people secure their legitimate rights.

As the As-Suwayda protests enter their second month, the demonstrators continue in their calls for the removal of Bashar al-Assad and his regime, advocating for a transformative political shift in line with UN Security Council Resolution No. 2254.