Two Druze Remembrance Day ceremony attendees accuse gov't of 'baseless promises, destroying homes'

At a somber Remembrance Day ceremony in Usfiya, northern Israel, two Druze attendees voiced sharp criticism directed at Energy Minister Eli Cohen and the Israeli government. Their protest centered on accusations of "baseless promises" and the government's alleged role in "destroying children's homes," a stark contrast to the perceived threat of missiles from Iran. This outburst reflects a deep-seated frustration within the Druze community regarding unaddressed issues, particularly the prolonged delay in passing the Kaminitz Law.

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The words are hollow. The promises are baseless. The Israeli government is destroying children's homes, not missiles from Iran.

Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, a prominent leader of the Druze community in Israel, echoed these sentiments, telling Walla news that "patience is running out." He highlighted the plight of thousands of homes in Druze villages that remain unapproved, lacking essential services like electricity, and facing hefty fines. Tarif characterized this as a "clear example of the state’s ongoing failure for decades," emphasizing that the Druze, who have "fought for the state," deserve better. He called for tangible action rather than empty rhetoric, stating, "No more promises. We must act - this is the time for action."

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Patience is running out. Unfortunately, the state is absent from the lives of the fallen families and the Druze community. Thousands of homes built in the Carmel and Druze villages remain unapproved, without electricity connections, and are subjected to enforcement measures and fines amounting to hundreds of thousands of shekels. This is a clear example of the state’s ongoing failure for decades.

Tarif also broadened his critique to the international stage, lamenting the world's silence on the plight of the Druze community in Syria, while commending the solidarity shown by the Jewish people and the State of Israel. His remarks underscore a complex duality: the Druze community's deep commitment to Israel, coupled with a growing sense of neglect and a demand for equitable treatment within the state. The ceremony, meant to honor fallen soldiers, became a platform for expressing grievances about the present and demanding a more responsive government.

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The Druze have fought for the state, and will continue to fight for their rights in their country, for the covenant of life and equality. The state must carry the burden of proof and action. No more promises. We must act - this is the time for action.