Druze Leader Escalates Rhetoric Against Syrian State, Cites Ties to Israel
Remarks Spark Fresh Controversy
Hikmat al-Hijri, a Druze religious leader in Syria’s southern province of Suwayda, has renewed his criticism of the Syrian state by publicly declaring that his followers are an “inseparable part of Israel.”
He made the comments in an interview published on Tuesday by the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. Syrian authorities have not issued an immediate response.
Minority View Within Druze Community
The Druze community in Suwayda recognizes three religious leaders: Hikmat al-Hijri, Hammoud Yahya al-Hinnawi, and Yusuf Jarbou’. Supporters of al-Hijri form a minority and do not represent the broader Druze population in the province.
Despite this, al-Hijri claimed a deep political connection with Israel, describing it as essential to his group’s future.
Call for Independence and External Oversight
Al-Hijri said his primary demand was “full independence” for Suwayda. He added that a temporary phase of self-rule under international supervision could be acceptable.
In this context, he described Israel as the most suitable guarantor, arguing it should oversee future arrangements for the region. He also promoted territorial division and autonomous governance, claiming such steps would protect minorities and strengthen regional stability.
Criticism of Syrian Government
Al-Hijri strongly attacked Syria’s current leadership, alleging it represents the “most brutal system” and claiming it emerged from extremist roots. He also praised Israel’s military actions inside Syria, stating that Israel was the only country to intervene under the claim of protecting Druze communities.
Although the Syrian government has coordinated humanitarian aid deliveries to Suwayda, al-Hijri denied any ties with Damascus and repeated his call for an independent Druze region.
Growing Tensions and Past Incidents
He said relations between his supporters and Israel existed even before the fall of former president Bashar al-Assad in December 2024.
In the past, al-Hijri’s followers sparked widespread anger by raising Israeli flags during demonstrations and publicly calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to intervene in Syria’s internal affairs.
Background of Unrest in Suwayda
Suwayda has remained under a ceasefire since July 2025, following deadly clashes between Bedouin tribes and Druze groups that killed and wounded hundreds. However, factions linked to al-Hijri have repeatedly violated the truce and attacked military positions.
Meanwhile, the Syrian government has maintained the ceasefire, facilitated evacuations, and allowed humanitarian aid into the province.
Post-Assad Political Transition
Since Assad’s removal in late 2024, Syria’s new leadership has introduced security measures and launched political and economic reforms. The transitional government, led by President Ahmad al-Sharaa since January 2025, has also emphasized social unity and expanded regional and international cooperation.
Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia last December, ending decades of Baath Party rule that began in 1963.
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