Syrian Druze leader declares community 'inseparable part of Israel,' hints at Sweida developments

Hikmat al-Hijri, a spiritual leader for Syria's Druze community, has ignited significant controversy with his recent declaration that the Druze are an "inseparable part of the State of Israel."

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the Druze were an “inseparable part of the State of Israel,” adding that there was common ground with Israel “even in faith.”

These remarks, made during a gathering in the southern Syrian province of Sweida, represent a notable escalation in al-Hijri's rhetoric. He not only emphasized common ground with Israel, even in faith, but also praised Israel's model of state-building and its methods for safeguarding national interests. This statement comes amid ongoing tensions between forces aligned with al-Hijri in Sweida and the Syrian government in Damascus.

Al-Hijri's increasingly firm stance on Sweida's political future has been evident in recent months. He has spoken about the right to self-determination for the province and the possibility of it forming a separate entity from Damascus. He has also raised the prospect of Sweida eventually coming under the protection of another country or joining another state.

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developments concerning Sweida could emerge “within days,”

Adding to the intrigue, al-Hijri suggested that significant developments concerning Sweida could emerge "within days." While he did not elaborate on the nature of these potential developments, the province is currently a focal point for intensified regional and international diplomatic efforts. Al-Hijri also addressed the recent clashes in Sweida, noting the losses incurred and emphasizing the need for international involvement to find a solution for the province's complex situation.

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the province’s residents were “in one trench”