Druze Community
The ongoing conflict in Syria continues to reveal deep-seated sectarian tensions. Recent clashes near Damascus have involved Islamist factions, security forces, and the Druze minority. This violence puts stress on the precarious security situation following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. The new authorities in Syria claim to seek stability, yet suspicions linger due to their jihadist connections.
Background of the Syrian Conflict
Syria has endured over a decade of civil war. The Assad regime initially regained control of major cities and highways. However, regions like Idlib and areas inhabited by the Druze remain outside government control. The civil war has left Syria fractured along sectarian lines, with various factions vying for power.
Recent Clashes and Their Causes
Violence erupted after an audio clip surfaced, allegedly featuring a Druze cleric criticising Prophet Mohammed. This incited anger among Sunni Islamists, leading to attacks on Druze community members. Armed Druze fighters responded, escalating the conflict in areas such as Jaramana and Sweida.
The Druze Community
The Druze are a unique religious minority with roots in Ismailism, an offshoot of Shia Islam. The name “Druze” comes from Muhammad bin Ismail Nashtakin ad-Darazi, an early preacher. They emerged in 11th century Egypt, recognising key Abrahamic prophets and believing in reincarnation. Their sacred texts include the Kitab al-Hikma (Book of Wisdom). The Druze community is tightly knit, with a strong emphasis on cultural identity and limited intermarriage. Conversion is not allowed into the Druze faith. This community is highly secretive and strongly bonded, with marriages outside the community being extremely rare.
Geographic Presence
- Around 1 million Druze live mainly in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Israel.
- In Syria, Druze live in southern Damascus, Sweida province, and Golan Heights.
- After Israel captured Golan in 1967 and annexed it in 1981, Druze stayed in their villages.
- About 25,000 Druze live in Golan Heights; around 25% of them have Israeli citizenship.
- In Israel overall, around 1.5 lakh Druze live.
Israel’s Role
- During Syria’s civil war, Israel allegedly helped Druze in southern Syria.
- Now, after Islamists took power, Israel claims to defend the Druze while also expanding control over Syrian land in Golan.
- Critics argue that Israel is using the situation to justify further intervention and land occupation.
- Israel’s current war on Gaza has caused over 50,000 Palestinian deaths, mostly women and children.
Future Prospects
The Druze face a challenging choice between aligning with domestic Islamists or relying on foreign powers. Their historical experiences of persecution shape their current outlook. As the situation evolves, the Druze community’s fate remains uncertain amidst ongoing violence and political instability.
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