Syrian government and Druze militias trade prisoners in Sweida province

Syrian government and Druze militias trade prisoners in Sweida province

Syrian Government and Druze Militias Reportedly Exchange Detainees in Sweida Province

The U.S. has facilitated negotiations between the Syrian transitional government in Damascus and Druze-led factions in Sweida province to exchange prisoners detained since sectarian clashes erupted in July 2025. The talks, mediated by the U.S., aim to secure the release of 61 Druze civilians held by Damascus in exchange for 30 Syrian Interior and Defense Ministry personnel detained by the Druze National Guard, a security force operating under Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, the prominent Druze leader.

The clashes, which left over 2,000 people dead—including 789 Druze civilians allegedly executed by Syrian security forces—sparked a fragile ceasefire in July 2025. However, tensions persist, with residents accusing Damascus of imposing a de facto siege on Sweida, though the government denies this. Aid deliveries have been limited, and tens of thousands remain displaced. Meanwhile, Hijri's National Guard has consolidated control over Sweida city and surrounding areas, demanding administrative autonomy for the Druze community.

Israel has intervened in the conflict, conducting airstrikes on Syrian military targets to protect Druze communities and reportedly supplying arms and financial support to Druze militias. Reuters reported that Israel has paid salaries for approximately 3,000 Druze fighters since July 2025, though these claims remain unverified. The Israeli military maintains a presence near the Golan Heights, citing concerns over weapon proliferation.

The prisoner exchange could pave the way for a broader agreement, with reports suggesting Damascus seeks to grant Sweida limited administrative and security powers in exchange for relinquishing Druze demands for independence. U.S. mediation efforts align with broader regional diplomacy, including trilateral talks between Israel, Syria, and the U.S. in January 2026 aimed at reducing tensions.

While a resolution could stabilize Sweida and ease humanitarian challenges, ongoing disputes and external interventions underscore the region's fragility. Investors and stakeholders should monitor developments, as prolonged instability risks disrupting trade routes and aid flows in southern Syria.