Lebanese Druze Leader Warns Against Foreign Influence in Syria

Walid Jumblatt urges Druze in Syria to resist foreign influence, emphasizing the need for unity and vigilance against division. He criticized a recent visit of Syrian Druze leaders to Israel as symbolic and reaffirmed the importance of protecting their identity. His statements reflect concerns over Israeli outreach and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

Walid Jumblatt, the Lebanese Druze leader, has issued a warning to Druze communities in Syria regarding foreign interference, urging them to unite against attempts to divide their nation. At a ceremony in Mukhtara to commemorate the 48th anniversary of his father Kamal Jumblatt’s assassination, he called for the preservation of Arab and Islamic identity among Syrian Druze.

He emphasized the importance of their historical resistance and urged them to defend their shared struggles against occupation and colonialism, particularly concerning the Golan Heights. Jumblatt cautioned against “Zionist infiltration” and the potential for anyone in their ranks to become a tool for Syria’s division.

Jumblatt’s remarks arise amidst increasing concerns about Israeli outreach to Syrian Druze, which has faced criticism from various regional leaders. Additionally, he announced the discontinuation of the annual commemoration of his father’s assassination and expressed satisfaction over the recent arrest of Ibrahim Huwayja, whom he blames for the assassination.

In his address, Jumblatt reaffirmed the Progressive Socialist Party’s commitment to Lebanon’s unity and Arab identity. He called for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon and advocated for the establishment of new foundations for Lebanon-Syria relations.

Moreover, Jumblatt criticized a historic visit by approximately 100 Syrian Druze leaders to Israel, expressing that it would not alter the reality of occupation. He characterized the visit as merely symbolic, stating, “a visit, religious or otherwise, will not change the fact of occupation in Palestine and the Golan Heights.”

In related news, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced 10,000 humanitarian aid packages sent to Druze in southern Syria, highlighting Israel’s effort to strengthen connections with the Druze community. Additionally, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz assured the removal of threats to the Druze and announced provisions that would allow Syrian Druze workers into the occupied Golan Heights.

Israel has also initiated a $1 billion investment plan over five years to bolster Druze and Circassian communities in the Golan Heights, Galilee, and Mount Carmel regions.

In conclusion, Walid Jumblatt’s message underscores the importance of unity and vigilance among the Druze communities in Syria against foreign influence. His firm stance on preserving their identity and resisting manipulation highlights the ongoing geopolitical complexities in the region, particularly concerning Israeli involvement. Additionally, the Israeli government’s moves to strengthen ties with the Druze community indicate significant implications for regional dynamics.

Original Source: www.newarab.com