Suwayda: Students in Syria's southern province of Suwayda faced disruptions for the second consecutive day as 'outlaw groups' continued to block roads, preventing access to exam centers, as reported by Al-Ikhbariya TV.

According to Anadolu Agency, these groups set up new checkpoints on the Suwayda-Shahba road to hinder students from attending their exams in the northern countryside of Suwayda. Reports indicate that students attempting to bypass these checkpoints on foot were attacked by members of the groups.

The television network noted the presence of civil defense teams and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent Society around the exam centers, poised to offer support and manage emergencies during the exam period.

On August 17, Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa issued a decree offering students in Suwayda an exceptional exam session for those unable to complete their exams this year due to similar obstructions. These incidents have been linked to armed groups associated with Hikmat al-Hijri, a Druze leader in Suwayda, who has been involved in efforts to disrupt public life in the province. Suwayda has been operating under a ceasefire agreement since July 2025.

Al-Hijri, following the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime, has advocated for Suwayda's separation from the central government, seeking what he described as 'independence' and fostering relations with Israel, from which he has received public support.