Amnesty International released a new investigative report on Tuesday detailing extrajudicial executions of Druze civilians by the Syrian government and affiliated forces in the Suwayda governorate on July 15-16.

The human rights organization confirmed that 46 individuals—44 men and two women—were deliberately shot dead, while two older victims were subjected to mock executions. These killings took place across multiple locations, including a public square, private residences, a school, a hospital, and a ceremonial hall.

According to Amnesty’s investigation, one man who relocated his family due to the violence watched two uniformed individuals kill his three sons and three nephews at a security checkpoint. The man told investigators:

[T]he security forces asked me if the car behind was with me. I said yes. Both officers then walked toward my son’s car. I watched through the rear-view mirror. I saw my son smile at them and say “salam aalykom” [peace be with you]. One of the officers…returned the greeting, and suddenly opened fire—just like that. Then the second officer began shooting too. What hurt me the most was seeing my son’s body dance as the bullets pierced him.

Evidence backing up Amnesty’s findings includes videos, photographs, and eyewitness accounts, all pointing to intentional and coordinated massacres by state-linked actors.

Diana Semaan, Amnesty International’s acting deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa, stated: “Instead of fearing justice, men in military and security uniforms, and men affiliated with them, filmed themselves executing people in Suwayda. An independent and impartial investigation is crucial to identify perpetrators, hold them accountable and address impunity.”

In July, Syria’s Defense Ministry acknowledged reports of “shocking and serious violations” during the clashes in Suwayda (also rendered Sweida).

Broader violence in southern Syria during mid-July led to hundreds of deaths. Witnesses reported execution-style killings in homes and streets, further exacerbating fears in the Druze community over their security and the direction of Syria’s post-Assad transition.

Amnesty called on the transitional Syrian government to hold those responsible accountable under international law and urged independent investigations to seek justice and reconciliation in the region. Semaan urged the Syrian government to “promptly, independently, impartially and transparently investigate these executions and hold perpetrators accountable in fair proceedings, without recourse to the death penalty.”