Historic Visit by Syrian Druze Delegation to Israel Marks New Era of Relations
The Israeli Druze community is preparing for a historic visit by Syrian Druze elders, the first in 50 years. Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif expressed optimism about the event, highlighting its significance amidst ongoing regional tensions. Israeli authorities have also made gestures of support for the Syrian Druze, although skepticism about the Syrian government persists. Overall, the visit symbolizes hope for peace and unity among diverse communities in the region.
A significant event is set to take place as the Druze community in Israel prepares for the first visit by a Syrian Druze delegation in 50 years. Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the leader of the Israeli Druze, expressed optimism regarding the arrival of approximately 100 Syrian Druze religious elders, who are expected to visit on Friday, following a long hiatus that dates back to the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War in 1973.
This delegation, comprising religious leaders from Druze villages near Mount Hermon in Syria, aims to pay tribute at holy sites, including what is believed to be the tomb of prophet Shuayb located in the Lower Galilee. The visit, although not formally confirmed, reflects Israel’s renewed engagement with the Druze minority in Syria, particularly amid rising tensions evidenced by recent airstrikes in Damascus.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Syrian Druze workers would be permitted to enter Israel, marking a limited reopening of crossings since the onset of the Syrian civil war. Additionally, humanitarian aid has been sent from Israel to support the Druze communities in Syria, reinforcing the connections between these groups despite the complex political climate.
Tensions persist, highlighted by Israeli airstrikes targeting positions linked to the Iran-backed Islamic Jihad in Syria. Israeli officials remain skeptical of the new Syrian government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, referring to his association with radical groups. Despite military operations and preparations, Sheikh Tarif believes that the Druze in Syria do not require external protection, expressing confidence in their pride and resilience.
Sheikh Tarif envisions a future where the new Syrian government includes various minorities, fostering a sense of unity and coexistence among Druze, Christians, Kurds, and others in the region. He articulated a daily wish for peace and harmony across Lebanon, Syria, Israel, and globally, highlighting the hopes of the Druze community for a stable and inclusive Syria.
The impending visit of Syrian Druze religious elders to Israel marks a historic event after a prolonged absence, symbolizing a potential thaw in relations. Sheikh Tarif’s comments reflect a desire for peace and inclusion of various communities within Syria. Despite ongoing tensions with the Syrian government, the Israeli Druze community remains hopeful for reconciliation and mutual respect, indicating a shared aspiration for better conditions across the region.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
