A series of controversial statements made by Hussein Al-Sharaa, the father of the de facto authority leader Abu Mohammad al-Julani, has ignited a wave of public anger and condemnation across Syria. Appearing on the “Syria Cast” podcast, Al-Sharaa made remarks that many have criticized as deeply classist, divisive, and insulting to the social fabric of several Syrian regions.
Controversial Remarks
During the interview, Al-Sharaa used derogatory language to describe the people of Deir ez-Zor, referring to them as “savages,” while labeling the farmers and inhabitants of Damascus neighborhoods like Ghouta and Kafr Souseh as “lower-class diggers” (Hafiriyeen). Furthermore, he targeted the people of Damascus and Aleppo more broadly, accusing them of being elitist and condescending.
Local Backlash and Protests
The reaction to the podcast was immediate and intense, particularly in the eastern province of Deir ez-Zor. Angry protests erupted across the region, with local residents and tribal figures condemning the rhetoric as a blatant attempt to deepen internal divisions. In widely circulated videos, demonstrators demanded an immediate official apology, with some issuing direct warnings to the de facto leadership that the insult would not be tolerated and could lead to total rejection of their authority in the area.
Activists from Damascus and Aleppo also voiced their outrage. Prominent figures, including local activist Tarif Nwaylati, publicly rebuked Al-Sharaa, describing him as senile and stating that his words did not only disrespect the people of Syria but also brought shame upon his own age and standing.
Attempts at Damage Control
As public fury mounted, Abu Mohammad al-Julani attempted to defuse the situation through a public address to the notables and residents of Deir ez-Zor. In his speech, he offered a conciliatory apology, claiming that his father’s words “hurt him personally” before they hurt the people of the region, and asked the community to let the matter go for his sake.
Following his son’s speech, Hussein Al-Sharaa issued his own clarification, claiming that his comments were taken out of context due to video editing and “dubbing.” He asserted that he had no intention of insulting Deir ez-Zor and had previously requested the interview producer to remove the controversial segment before it aired.
A Critical Timing
This controversy comes at an exceptionally tense moment for the region. The Syrian street, particularly in the Al-Jazira and eastern regions, is already simmering with discontent due to severe economic hardships and an ongoing farmers’ uprising triggered by low wheat pricing. Analysts note that these discriminatory remarks have only added fuel to the fire, further alienating local populations from the ruling de facto authorities.