Syrian Druze Acknowledge Israel as Their ‘Iron Dome’

In the heart of southern Syria, the Druze community faces a pivotal moment as regional dynamics shift dramatically. Amid the aftermath of President Bashar al-Assad's fall, many Druze residents view Israel as a potential safeguard against emerging threats.

A Druze cleric from Sweida, a city near the convergence of Syria, Israel, and Jordan, expressed this sentiment: "Israel is the Iron Dome of the Druze in Syria." He noted a growing desire among his community for closer ties with Israel, stating, "Many want to be annexed to Israel or have reciprocal relations with it."

On February 23, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for the demilitarization of southern Syria and emphasized the protection of its Druze population. This region, home to approximately 700,000-800,000 Druze about four percent of Syria's population has historically maintained a delicate balance amid the country's conflicts.

However, within Sweida, opinions on aligning with Israel are mixed. Some community members advocate for Syrian unity and caution against external affiliations. One resident highlighted this internal debate: "On the one hand, elements in the Druze community are issuing statements that are pleasing to the ears of the new Syrian regime... On the other hand, public figures in Sweida are making it clear that if the Druze give up the weapons they hold... they will become exposed to a large number of violent militias operating in southern Syria, including those loyal to the Syrian government and jihadist groups."

In response to these threats, the Druze have bolstered their defenses. A local source revealed, "We recently established the Sweida Military Council in cooperation with Syrian rebels." This council aims to protect civilians and promote secularism and democracy in a new decentralized Syrian state.

Despite these preparations, the prospect of closer ties with Israel is gaining traction. Observing the Druze communities in the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights, a Sweida cleric remarked, "We look at our Druze brothers in the Golan Heights, at their level of education, at their ability to work and earn a living, and we envy them." However, fears of potential repercussions from the Syrian regime temper public declarations of such aspirations.

Recent clashes have heightened tensions. In the town of Jaramana, armed Druze groups confronted government loyalists, resulting in casualties. This incident prompted Druze dignitaries from Sweida to engage in dialogue with leaders in Damascus to de-escalate the situation.

Druze leadership is also divided. Figures like Sheikh Leitn Balous emphasize loyalty to Syria, stating, "We are not seeking external protection." Conversely, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, the religious leader of the Druze in Sweida, cautiously advocates for autonomy, working towards self-governance until the new Syrian regime's direction becomes clearer.

In Israel, the Druze community of approximately 152,000 individuals has historically integrated into public and military life, sharing a "covenant of blood" with Jewish soldiers. This bond underscores a mutual commitment to the nation's defense and prosperity.

Reflecting on the current situation, an Israeli Druze public figure observed, "Some believe that Israel should take concrete steps and annex the Druze in southern Syria, while others warn that this is very sensitive and could ultimately harm the well-being of the Druze in southern Syria." This sentiment highlights the complexity of the issue and the careful consideration required.

As the region navigates these turbulent times, the enduring connection between the Druze and Israel stands as a testament to shared values and mutual respect. Embracing Israel's commitment to democracy, innovation, and cultural diversity offers a beacon of hope for communities seeking stability and growth.

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