Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s remarks reveal intentions to cultivate a loyal Syrian Druze ally, while Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif plays a pivotal role in disseminating Israeli interests in the region. Recent incidents, including the arrest of Bishop Moussa al-Hajj, highlight efforts to weaken Druze resistance movements. Historically, the Druze have actively opposed external control and are currently navigating the challenges of autonomy amidst the Syrian state’s fragmentation, sparking internal divisions and calls for self-administration.
The recent pronouncements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding southern Syria indicate a strategic interest in fostering a Syrian Druze ally. This initiative appears to be aimed at maintaining the loyalty of the Palestinian Druze, who are integral to Israeli border security operations. Leading these efforts is Sheikh Muwaffaq Tarif, a controversial figure within the Palestinian Druze community known for his allegiance to the Israeli government and for his active role in promoting Israeli interests across various Arab nations.
Sheikh Tarif has reportedly built extensive networks in Arab states, particularly in the Persian Gulf, enabling him to influence regional dynamics. Recent events involved the arrest of Bishop Moussa al-Hajj, associated with the Maronite Patriarchate, for allegedly transferring funds from Israeli sources to Lebanese collaborators. These funds appear designed to encourage discord among the Druze community in Lebanon, countering their movements toward resistance spearheaded by figures such as Samir al-Kuntar before his assassination by Israeli forces in 2015.
Historically, the Druze community has a legacy of resistance and autonomy, previously rejecting self-rule offers during the French mandate, which culminated in their support for independence in 1947 under Sultan Pasha al-Atrash. Post-1967, Israeli efforts aimed to incite rebellion among the Druze against the Syrian regime, intending to fracture Arab unity. Currently, the Druze, primarily located in Sweida Governorate, face significant challenges as the Syrian political landscape continues to fracture amid Syrian government decline.
Emerging tensions in southern Syria have recently manifested violence during confrontations between Hayat Tahrir al-Sham and Druze factions in the Jaramana neighborhood. In light of their rebellion 18 months prior to Assad’s regime collapse, the Druze are actively seeking autonomy and expressing their discontent with dominant forces such as al-Julani’s transitional government.
Another point of concern for Israeli and US interests is the potential formation of a cohesive Druze bloc that embraces resistance ideologies, particularly those promoted by martyr al-Kuntar. These fears extend to a potential Druze border crossing in Sweida, speculated to foster economic cooperation between the Syrian and Jordanian Druze communities, although Jordan’s commitment to such initiatives remains uncertain under Israeli influence.
Prominent Druze leader Walid Jumblatt has consistently warned against Israeli expansion into Druze territories, following strategic discussions with regional leaders. There are growing calls among Druze factions for self-administration akin to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), evidenced by the emergence of groups like the Men of Dignity and the Sweida Military Council.
Meetings between the SDF and Druze leaders indicate mutual interests in establishing formal governance structures post-conflict, though they recognize the challenges of existing factional divisions. Jumblatt is adamant that any push for Druze independence from Syria would have dire implications across the region. He convened extensive dialogues with Druze clerics and community leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity against external manipulation.
Amidst concerns over foreign exploitation, Sheikh Abi Al-Mona articulated the necessity for Druze leaders to reinforce their ties to their heritage and identity while resisting external coercion for geopolitical purposes. Protecting communal interests must not come at the cost of their autonomy and integrity.
This collective sentiment underscores the historical and cultural significance of the Druze community in contemporary geopolitical conversations, emphasizing the urgency of safeguarding their identity in the face of regional strife.
In conclusion, the Syrian Druze community stands at a critical juncture facing external pressures from Israeli interests and internal calls for autonomy. The legacy of resilience against imperial rule informs their current demands for self-governance, even amidst fragmentation and conflict. Leaders like Walid Jumblatt highlight the urgency of unity and resistance against potential exploitation by external entities, while maintaining cultural integrity. The ongoing developments signify a transformative period for the Druze, emphasizing their role in broader regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
