The Syrian Ministry of Defense issued a directive on Tuesday, September 30, prohibiting the sewing or embroidery of military symbols to control their unauthorized use.

The directive, published on the ministry’s official Facebook page, was addressed to all tailoring and embroidery workshops in both the public and private sectors. It bans the production of patches, emblems, or military ranks to prevent their circulation without authorization.

The ministry warned of legal accountability for violators and stressed that its Supply and Logistics Authority affirms the directive’s content, emphasizing full compliance and holding offenders legally responsible without exception.

New identification measures

On June 29, a Defense Ministry media office official told Enab Baladi that the ministry would issue new advanced military ID cards, featuring personal and encrypted digital data, in line with technical specifications designed to enhance reliability and institutional identity.

Additionally, every soldier assigned to a special mission will receive an official memo specifying the weapon type and serial number carried, in order to ensure accurate monitoring, accountability, and documentation.

The official explained that Defense Ministry personnel are subject to the applicable military laws and internal regulations. In cases of individual violations or misconduct, strict legal measures are taken to preserve the institution’s image and discipline.

He noted that these regulations remain internal to the ministry and that some have not yet been formally ratified, as the ministry is still in the process of establishing its full structure.

Citizens subjected to violations by Defense Ministry personnel, or by individuals impersonating them, may file official complaints with military police stations or military courts in Syria, where legal procedures will be pursued.

Code of conduct for recruits

On May 30, the ministry introduced a code of conduct for recruits of the “new Syrian army,” following the near-complete merger of military factions into the national armed forces.

The code aims to instill discipline, respect for the law, and protection of rights and freedoms to build a professional national army.

The code outlines core duties for military personnel, including:

• Defending the homeland, its sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

• Sacrificing for the safety of the nation and its citizens.

• Protecting civilians, especially women and children, in all circumstances.

• Carrying out lawful orders.

• Respecting civil and military laws.

• Safeguarding public and private property while treating citizens with dignity without discrimination.

• Upholding international humanitarian law when dealing with enemies, including the dead, wounded, and captured, during missions.

• Observing military hierarchy and internal discipline.

The code also prohibits recruits from:

• Disobeying lawful military orders.

• Assaulting civilians.

• Damaging public or private property.

• Using slogans or rhetoric that harm national unity or civil peace.

• Abusing detainees or prisoners, who must be handed over to the competent authorities respectfully and lawfully.

• Disclosing military secrets or sensitive information.

• Photographing sites or operations without official permission.

• Giving media statements or publishing material without Defense Ministry approval.

• Violating public morals or social traditions in areas where armed forces are deployed.