The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) documented seven rape cases of women and girls during the bloody events that took place in Sweida city and its countryside last July. The most recent incident involved a horrific incident involving a minor girl. She was repeatedly harassed by several members before being raped by a foreign fighter affiliated with the Ministries of Defense and Interior. Other members also participated in the harassment. This crime left the victim severely traumatized.
The SOHR also obtained forensic medical reports confirming the sexual abuse of the victims by members of the Ministries of Defense and Interior and their allied forces.
At the same time, 11 other rape cases are being investigated by the forensic medicine department in Sweida, along with information about additional victims whom the Observatory has not yet been able to reach or verify due to social customs and traditions that prevent disclosure of these crimes for fear of “shame.”
The Syrian Observatory affirms that rape, under international humanitarian law, is classified as a war crime. Accordingly, the Observatory stresses that these grave violations require the formation of an independent UN commission of inquiry to collect evidence and testimonies and directly supervise investigations. This will ensure that perpetrators do not escape punishment and that all those involved are held accountable, regardless of their position or affiliation. The Observatory also calls for special protection for victims and witnesses, and for psychological and social support for them, in line with the international community’s obligations in the field of human rights and international law.
