Druze Leader Rejects Agreement with ‘Radical’ Syrian Government

Hikmat al-Hijri, leader of the Syrian Druze community, opposes integration with the interim government, calling it ‘radical.’ The Druze community is divided on their response to the new authorities, while Israel positions itself as a protector against government oppression. Turkish officials visited Damascus, engaging in discussions following recent constitutional agreements in Syria and integration with Kurdish forces.

Hikmat al-Hijri, the spiritual leader of the Syrian Druze community, has firmly rejected any agreements with what he deems the “radical” interim Syrian government following the emergence of a new transitional constitution. His remarks, captured in a video circulating online, express a strong desire for autonomy from state institutions and highlight significant concerns regarding the governing body in Damascus.

During a recent gathering in Suweida, al-Hijri stated, “There is no understanding or agreement with the existing government in Damascus, which is a radical government in every sense of the word.” He further criticized the government, emphasizing its status as a target of international justice and asserting that any leniency concerning this issue is unacceptable for the Syrian people.

This week, the Men of Dignity movement, a leading military faction among the Druze, signed an agreement to place its security forces under the interior ministry’s command, which includes central government authority to appoint a governor for Suweida. Although some Druze leaders have engaged with the new authorities, a substantial faction remains skeptical of officials with ties to militant Islamism.

Ahmed al-Sharaa, the former leader of the now-disbanded Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and the current interim president, has attempted to alleviate fears of sectarian governance. However, the recent sectarian violence that reportedly resulted in numerous civilian deaths has exacerbated concerns within the Druze community.

Amid these developments, Israel has positioned itself as a protector of the Druze, promoting separatism within Suweida, which is widely rejected by the community. Israeli officials have described members of Syria’s new government as “terrorists” and called for the dissolution of the Syrian state, which has sparked protests across Syria and prompted military responses in the region. Israel claims its intent is to safeguard the Druze interests and has invited community members to work in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.

Meanwhile, a significant diplomatic event occurred when Turkish officials, including Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and Defence Minister Yasar Guler, unexpectedly visited Damascus. Their arrival coincided with the signing of a constitutional declaration by President al-Sharaa, establishing a five-year political transition plan and affirming rights concerning women’s representation and freedom of expression. The visit also follows a breakthrough agreement with Kurdish forces for their integration into state institutions.

The Druze community remains largely opposed to the Syrian interim government led by al-Sharaa, citing its radical nature and a commitment to maintaining autonomy. Divisions among Druze factions regarding their response to the government’s rise reflect underlying distrust, particularly toward figures linked with militant Islamism. Israel’s call for separatism complicates the situation, as Turkey pursues diplomatic engagement with the Syrian government. Overall, the events signify ongoing tensions and a complicated landscape for the Druze and other minority groups in Syria.

Original Source: www.newarab.com