Israel Sends Humanitarian Aid to Support Druze Communities in Syria

Israel’s Foreign Ministry reported the delivery of 10,000 humanitarian aid packages to Syrian Druze communities, providing essential supplies and demonstrating solidarity with this minority group. The move coincides with initiatives allowing Syrian Druze to work in the Golan Heights and upcoming visits by community leaders.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry announced that humanitarian aid has been dispatched to Druze communities in Syria within the past few weeks, marking a significant gesture of support for this minority group. The ministry confirmed that approximately 10,000 packages containing essential goods, such as oil, flour, salt, and sugar, have been delivered mainly to the southern province of Suwayda.

The Druze community, an Arab minority residing in Syria, Israel, the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, and Lebanon, practices a faith that, while rooted in Islam, has evolved to establish a unique identity. Within Israel, many Druze individuals participate in the military, with some holding high-ranking positions.

Israeli officials have demonstrated skepticism towards the current Syrian government led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, particularly following the removal of former president Bashar al-Assad. The situation has heightened concerns over the respect for minority rights in Syria, with Israel advocating for the protection of groups like the Druze.

In a recent development, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Syrian Druze would be permitted to enter and work in the Golan Heights, a territory captured by Israel during the 1967 war. Additionally, around 100 prominent Druze leaders from Syria are scheduled to visit the Golan Heights on Friday, further strengthening the ties between the two communities.

In summary, Israel’s provision of humanitarian aid to the Druze communities in Syria underscores its commitment to supporting this minority group amid ongoing regional tensions. The aid initiative, alongside the recent development allowing Syrian Druze to work in the Golan Heights and the planned visit of Druze leaders, reflects Israel’s strategic engagement with the Druze population.

Original Source: www.usnews.com