In light of the sharp deterioration in humanitarian conditions in As-Suwayda Governorate, and amid ongoing restrictions on the movement of goods—combined with the fact that the aid delivered to the governorate falls far short of meeting the population’s needs—we, in the Syrian Women’s Political Movement, call for urgent action and the immediate, unconditional reopening of the Damascus–Suwayda road. This road is the natural and direct route linking the governorate to the capital and serves as a vital artery for the delivery of food, medicine, and essential supplies. Its reopening and security are therefore imperative.

In accordance with the Fourth Geneva Convention, which guarantees the passage of humanitarian relief and prohibits the use of siege tactics against civilians, we affirm that the closure of key roads and the promotion of unsafe, alternative routes constitute a policy of isolation and collective punishment against the residents of Suwayda. Such measures offer no real solution and stand in violation of international humanitarian law. We therefore stress that the protection of civilians, the facilitation of humanitarian access, and the guarantee of freedom of movement for all within the country are fundamental rights that must be upheld without politicization. On this basis, we demand the reopening of the main road to Damascus and emphasize that no steps toward recovery can begin without respecting the will of the people, safeguarding their dignity, and holding perpetrators accountable.

Suwayda is an integral part of Syria, and its fate must not be reduced to a bargaining chip in narrow political agendas or behind the scenes deals.

Since its founding, the Syrian Women’s Political Movement has maintained clear and unwavering political and humanitarian demands: the opening of roads, the lifting of sieges, the protection and neutralization of civilians, an end to collective punishment, a halt to all forms of violence, and the launch of an inclusive dialogue among all Syrians—toward a comprehensive and sustainable peace and the establishment of a democratic state founded on full and equal citizenship.

Long live Syria, and long live the Syrian people in all their diversity

General Secretariat of the Syrian Women’s Political Movement

Wednesday, August 13, 2025