Raed Halwani, a 29-year-old young man originally from the Al-Shaghour neighborhood in Damascus, was killed after being struck by multiple gunshots fired by personnel from the Daf al-Shawk checkpoint near the Al-Anayah junction at dawn on Monday, July 6, 2026. The shooting followed a verbal altercation between him and the checkpoint personnel while he was returning home after performing the Fajr (dawn) prayer. This incident raises serious concerns regarding the excessive use of force and the right to life.
According to available information, Raed Halwani was subjected to direct gunfire by the checkpoint personnel following the verbal altercation, resulting in multiple gunshot wounds. He was subsequently evacuated to Al-Mujtahid Hospital in Damascus for medical treatment; however, he succumbed to his injuries and passed away.
Information indicates that the victim worked in construction and was scheduled to hold his wedding ceremony the day after his passing, before his life was cut short under violent circumstances at a military checkpoint.
The killing of Raed Halwani constitutes a continuation of incidents involving the use of firearms by security and military checkpoint personnel against civilians. This necessitates an independent and transparent investigation to determine accountability and ensure those involved are held responsible, in accordance with the obligations to protect the right to life and prevent impunity.
