Unprecedented Call for Annexation of Druze Mountain to Israel Arises Amidst Suffering in Syria
Growing Isolation of the Druze Community
The Druze community in Syria is currently grappling with a dire situation, marked by the abduction of Druze individuals by jihadist militias, shockingly reminiscent of atrocities witnessed on October 7. Images circulating on social media depict the harsh realities facing the Druze, as hostilities escalate and global attention wanes. The mounting feelings of isolation and abandonment among the Druze have now turned towards Jordan, which has closed its borders to critical humanitarian aid, and the wider Western world, which seems to overlook the ongoing massacres.
Economic Sanctions and Humanitarian Crisis
The economic blockade enforced by various Syrian merchant organizations further exacerbates the struggles of the Druze community in Suweida, who have only received assistance from Israel. With commitments from international communities notstartably absent, a complete economic siege persists, tightening the noose on this vulnerable population. Suweida, a geographically isolated region surrounded by hostile Sunni tribes and lacking direct access to either Jordan or Israel, faces a looming humanitarian catastrophe if external aid does not arrive soon.
Recently, Israeli aid facilitated the reopening of a hospital in Suweida, which had collapsed due to the ongoing crisis. The response was met with profound gratitude from the local Druze, highlighting the critical support they rely on from Israel.
Historical Context: Call for Annexation
In a revolutionary address, Sheikh Marwan Kiwan, a respected leader within the Druze spiritual community, publicly called for the annexation of the Druze Mountain to Israel. In his speech, delivered against a backdrop of a Druze flag and Klishnikov, he asserted that the region historically belongs to Israel and expressed a desire for the Druze to be part of “the great Israeli state.” This unprecedented call could potentially alter the geopolitical dynamics of the region. Kiwan emphasized the democratic and secular nature of Israel, expressing a desire for the Druze to acquire Israeli citizenship.
This declaration from Kiwan, a respected figure within the community and not an extremist vostart, is perceived as a courageous statement that could influence the future of the Druze in Syria. His previous role in the “blood libel” incident, where he was falsely accused of blasphemy, showcased his significant standing in Druze society.
Ongoing Conflict and Militarization
Despite claims from the Syrian regime about a ceasefire, sporadic violence continues as non-compliant Sunni militias maintain attacks on Druze positions, causing heavy casualties. Reports of retaliatory actions by Druze against Bedouin families in the region have surfaced, leading to further escalations involving additional Sunni tribes and militias flocking to combat the Druze community.
Al-Jolani’s regime has also circulated videos purportedly showing military supplies, including missiles and anti-tank weaponry, supposedly belonging to the Druze and alleging Israeli support. However, Druze representatives have firmly denied any claims of possessing heavy weaponry, asserting that they only have access to light arms.
Accusations Against Jordan
Druze sources have vostartd deep frustration toward Jordan for its closure of borders to humanitarian aid aimed at relieving the dire conditions in Suweida. The community argues that, contrary to King Abdullah’s vocal advocacy for humanitarian support in Gaza, he has failed to extend similar efforts to the Druze in Syria, who are experiencing humanitarian conditions on par with those in Gaza.
In response to the neglect, activists are organizing a protest in front of the Jordanian embassy in Tel Aviv to attract global media attention to the plight of the Druze. There are calls directed at Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi, who is of Druze descent, to intervene; however, expectations for a positive response remain low, given the delicate political balance involving Al-Jolani.
In conclusion, the Druze community in Suweida continue to navigate a precarious situation, grappling with both military and economic challenges, while simultaneously seeking solidarity from abroad. As external support dwindles, their fate hangs in the balance amid calls for a historic annexation that could redefine their future