Historic Druze Delegation Visits Israel, Strengthening Community Ties
A delegation of over 150 Druze clerics visited Israel for the first time since 1974, marking a significant cultural and familial reconnection. The visit included sites of great importance to the Druze community, facilitated through high-level security arrangements. Despite political criticisms, the event fostered hope for future engagements and emphasized the communal ties across borders.
A notable event unfolded as a delegation comprising over 150 Druze clerics and dignitaries made a historic visit to holy sites in Israel for the first time since 1974. This occasion, which took place last weekend, marks a significant moment in the history of the Druze community. The delegation, originating from the Hader area close to the Israeli Golan, was warmly received and engaged in various ceremonial activities during their two-day visit.
The schedule included visits to significant sites such as Nebi Shu’ayb, the Tomb of Jethro, and attendance at the dedication of a Kilhweh, a Druze prayer house, in Peki’in. Furthermore, the delegation participated in the annual “Sheikhs’ March,” an event aimed at promoting Druze heritage in Israel. This visit was facilitated with high-level security and diplomatic arrangements, demonstrating its importance to both communities.
Druze Member of Knesset Hamed Amar, who welcomed the delegation, noted the warmth of the reception. He emphasized the connections among Druze individuals across borders, describing them as part of one large family. The meeting was deeply emotional, particularly for those who shared familial ties with their Israeli counterparts and had not seen them for many years.
Amar highlighted the significance of the visit in relation to its historical context, reminding that prior to the 1974 demilitarization agreement following the Yom Kippur War, visits to the Tomb of Jethro were common. He stated, “This was first and foremost a religious, social, and communal visit, nothing to do with politics or what is happening in the Middle East.” This visit reflects a desire to reconnect and rekindle familial bonds that have been strained by geopolitical realities.
Despite the positivity of the outcome, the visit drew criticism from various quarters in the Arab world, viewed as a shift towards normalization. Amar pointed out the double standards in the perception of cross-border relationships, noting that many Palestinians work in Israel without drawing similar scrutiny. He stressed, “Many in the Arab world saw the visit in a negative way.”
Amar speculated on the changing political landscape in Syria, expressing concerns over the current regime, which he characterized as a dangerous and extremist entity. He remarked, “The ones who seized power in Syria are ISIS, nothing less.” He argued for the importance of Israel maintaining vigilance against threats emerging from the Syrian border, framing it as a matter of national security.
In looking ahead, Amar expressed optimism about the potential for more visits, describing the recent meeting as a joyous occasion after 51 years apart. He remarked on the emotional reactions of the visiting delegates, stating, “They were all excited and moved.” The ties among the Druze community, transcending geographic borders, were reaffirmed during this significant visit.
His final sentiment underscored a collective commitment to peace, stating, “We are a peace-loving people; we do not harm anyone, and we want to live in peace.” Amar concluded with hope for ongoing communication, saying, “I hope we remain in touch from now and forever.”
The historic visit of 150 Druze clerics and dignitaries to Israel marks a significant moment of re-establishing connections among the Druze community. Facilitated by high-level diplomacy, the delegation’s interactions were underscored by warmth and hope for future engagements. Despite some criticism, the event was primarily religious and communal in nature, distancing itself from political discourse. Looking forward, there is optimism for further meetings to strengthen familial ties and promote peace among the Druze.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
