State of the World from NPR Syria Struggles to Find Unity
Apr 2, 2025
Syria's new government faces a challenging road to unify the nation. Local militias are being disbanded, but resistance persists. The Druze community, a well-armed religious group, expresses fear of sectarian violence from the new regime. They are determined to retain their weapons, reflecting deep-seated anxieties about the future. The struggle between the desire for a national army and the need for community security underscores the complexities in Syria's path forward.
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Druze Distrust and Self-Protection
- The Druze, a religious minority in Syria, distrust the new government and fear sectarian attacks.
- They refuse to disarm, maintaining their own militias for protection.
Druze Students Return to Heartland
- Druze students evacuated from Latakia, where Alawites were killed, returned to Sueda.
- They celebrated their return to relative safety, highlighting the community's retreat to their heartland.
Druze Militias Prepare for Defense
- Druze militias, like the Men of Dignity and Sueda Military Council, are preparing to defend their territory.
- Some seek international support, while others reject Israeli involvement, showcasing differing approaches.