As-Suwayda – Wednesday, July 23, 2025
One of the Most Serious Violations in Syria in Recent Years
In what may be one of the most serious violations in Syria in recent years, 134 unidentified bodies were buried in mass graves in the southern province of As-Suwayda. The burials were carried out without proper identification or documentation and under total security lockdown, raising widespread concern and strong suspicions of hidden crimes.
Night Burial and Complete Secrecy
The bodies were transported to an undisclosed location on the outskirts of As-Suwayda and buried in deep trenches using heavy machinery, under tight security imposed by the Al-Hijri militia. According to local sources, all forms of photography were strictly prohibited, and no independent, medical, or media observers were allowed near the site.
Victims Include Women, Children, and the Elderly
Eyewitnesses reported that the deceased included women, children, and elderly individuals, some of whom showed signs of burning, mutilation, or decapitation. No official information was released about the identities of the victims or the circumstances of their deaths. It is believed that the bodies belong to members of government security and army forces, as well as individuals from the Bedouin tribes and some residents of the city of As-Suwayda.
Mass Graves Similar to “Najha”
The burial process and its secrecy resemble the infamous “Najha mass graves,” which were previously linked to unlawful executions and enforced disappearances, built by the fallen Assad regime. The events in As-Suwayda raise serious fears that similar mass atrocities are being repeated without accountability.
Urgent International Investigation Demanded
In light of this disturbing incident, human rights organizations — including Taaluf Humanitaire International Organization — are calling for an urgent, independent international investigation to identify the victims, uncover the truth behind their deaths, and hold those responsible accountable. We specifically urge:
- International Human Rights Commission (IHRC)
- Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)
- United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria
- International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
to immediately deploy fact-finding missions and ensure that justice is not buried with the victims.
Conclusion
The secretive burial of such a large number of unidentified bodies without oversight constitutes a serious breach of international humanitarian and human rights law and may qualify as a crime against humanity. Silence in the face of such violations is a form of complicity. The international community must act swiftly to expose the truth and restore dignity to the victims.
Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC News Journalist
