20.05.2026 10:20
Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara's father, Hussein al-Shara, sparked backlash in the country after describing the people of Deir ez-Zor as 'barbaric and backward.' Following the remarks, tribes took to the streets in the region, and harsh criticism spread on social media. As the crisis escalated, Ahmed al-Shara met with the governor of Deir ez-Zor and local dignitaries to apologize for his father's words. Shara stated, 'My father's words hurt me as well.'
Statements made by Hussein Shara, father of Syrian President Ahmed Shara, during a television program have sparked debate in the country. After Hussein Shara said, "The people of Deir ez-Zor are barbaric and backward. Al-Shawaya is better than them," reactions rose in the region.
TRIBES TAKE TO THE STREETS
Following the statements, tribes in Deir ez-Zor took to the streets, and harsh criticisms were made on social media. While it was noted that the term "Al-Shawaya" carries a derogatory meaning among some communities in the region, the remarks were perceived as insulting based on tribe and identity.
AHMED SHARA APOLOGIZED
As the crisis escalated, it was learned that Syrian President Ahmed Shara held a phone conversation with the Governor of Deir ez-Zor and regional leaders. It was stated that Ahmed Shara apologized during the conversation for his father's words.
"LET THEM WIPE THIS WITH OUR BEARDS"
Shara reportedly said, "My father's words hurt me before they hurt the people of Deir. Your right is reserved. Let them wipe this with our beards."
The saying "Let them wipe this with our beards," used in Arab culture, is known as a traditional expression of apology meaning "let us make amends and win hearts."