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Al-Jabal Brigade
Druze militia based in al-Suwayda Governorate From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Al-Jabal Brigade (Arabic: لواء الجبل, romanized: Liwā' al-Jabal, lit. 'The Mountain Brigade', Arabic pronunciation: [liˈwɑːʔ alˈdʒabal]) is a Druze militia operating primarily in the al-Suwayda Governorate of southern Syria. Established during the Syrian civil war, the group has been involved in various military operations and has played a significant role in regional security dynamics.
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Background
The Al-Jabal Brigade emerged amidst the fragmentation of the Syrian conflict. Its formation reflected localized efforts by Assad loyalists to assert control and protect communities in the predominantly Druze region of al-Suwayda and was aimed at community defense.[6]
Activities
The group has conducted military operations against opposition forces, including rocket attacks on regime headquarters.[7] The Al-Jabal Brigade has also participated in suppressing dissent within al-Suwayda, reflecting its alignment with government forces in some instances.[8]
The faction allied with Druze militia Men of Dignity and the armed wing of the Syrian Socialist Nationalist Party, Eagles of the Whirlwind, in July 2018 while fighting against the Islamic State.[4]
The faction joined the Southern Operations Room in late 2024[3] and took part in the 2024 Southern Syria offensive.[5]
The group issued a joint statement with the Men of Dignity in January 2025 emphasizing that it was prepared to integrate into a new "military body".[9]
The office of Suwayda governor Mustafa al-Bakour was stormed on 21 May by armed criminals who successfully released Raghib Qarqout, a convicted car thief. The Men of Dignity provided cover for al-Bakour's exit, while the Al-Jabal Brigade engaged with the criminals.[10]
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Leadership
The group's leadership has been a focal point of local and regional disputes. Marhaj al-Jarmani, a prominent leader of the brigade, was assassinated in July 2024 at his home in al-Suwayda.[11] It was thought by some that his death was caused by the Syrian government, but an investigation by the group indicated that his wife and daughter were responsible.[12]
Relations with other factions
The Al-Jabal Brigade's relationships with other factions have varied over time. While initially aligned with local defense militias, the group has also cooperated with pro-regime forces.[13] However, internal power struggles and shifting allegiances have at times led to tensions within the local community.[14]
References
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